Fluorine (F), a chemical element with atomic number 9, occurs naturally in the environment and is widely recognized for its preventive and dental health benefits. However, excessive exposure to fluorine is not without health risks. In this article, HOD takes a close look at the potential risks of overexposure to fluoride, the common sources of exposure and the preventive measures you can take to minimize these risks.

The benefits of Fluorine in tooth protection and cavity prevention

Fluoride is commonly found in toothpastes, dental treatments and is even added to drinking water in some regions to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Its action consists in remineralizing tooth enamel, making teeth more resistant to acid attack by oral bacteria. This supplement has made a considerable contribution to improving oral health in many populations.

The risks of overexposure to fluoride

• Dental fluorosis

One of the most visible consequences of fluoride overexposure is dental fluorosis. This condition occurs during tooth formation, mainly in children, when tooth enamel is still developing.

Excessive exposure to fluoride during this period can cause white, brown or even streaky stains on the teeth. Although dental fluorosis is generally unsightly rather than medically dangerous, it can nevertheless impair self-confidence and self-esteem.

• Bone problems

Prolonged exposure to high levels of fluoride is likely to have consequences for bone health. Indeed, studies have suggested that excess fluoride increases the risk of bone fractures and brittle bones. This can be particularly worrying for the elderly, whose bones are already more vulnerable.

• Effects on the thyroid

Some researchers have investigated the possible links between excess fluoride and thyroid problems. This suggests that high levels of fluoride may interfere with normal thyroid function, which could have an impact on metabolism, hormone regulation and other bodily functions.

• Neurological problems

Although the evidence is less conclusive, there are concerns about the potential effects of excess fluoride on the nervous system. Some researchers have suggested that high levels of fluoride may be linked to neurological problems such as cognitive impairment and impaired brain function. However, more research is needed to date to establish clear links.

• Effects on the kidneys

The kidneys are responsible for eliminating potentially harmful substances from the body. Excessive exposure to fluoride could put additional strain on the kidneys, forcing them to filter and eliminate increased amounts of fluoride. This could potentially contribute to long-term kidney problems.

Where does the fluoride we ingest come from?

• Eau Potable : dans certaines régions, l'eau potable est fluorée pour prévenir les caries. Cependant, si l'eau contient déjà des niveaux naturellement élevés de fluor, cela peut contribuer à une exposition excessive.

• Toothpaste: excessive use of fluoride toothpaste, particularly in young children who tend to swallow the toothpaste, can contribute to fluoride overexposure.

• Processed foods: some processed foods and beverages can contain high levels of fluoride, especially if prepared with fluoridated water.

• Supplements: fluoride supplements, when taken without medical supervision, can lead to excessive exposure, particularly in children.

Precautions to reduce risks

Five points should be borne in mind to avoid the risk of fluoride poisoning:

1. Dental monitoring: It's important to monitor your children's oral health and see a dentist regularly for any signs of dental fluorosis.

2. Utilisation modérée de dentifrice : utilisez une quantité appropriée de dentifrice fluoré et apprenez à vos enfants à cracher plutôt qu'à avaler le dentifrice. Il existe des dentifrices sans fluor ou même des bâtons de nettoyage comme en Afrique.

3. Choix alimentaires : optez pour une alimentation équilibrée et réduisez la consommation d'aliments transformés riches en fluor. Pensez à bien vous hydrater pour activer l'élimination des toxines par les reins et la transpiration.

4. Water filtration: if your drinking water is fluoridated or contains high levels of fluoride, consider installing a suitable filtration system.

5. Medical consultation: before taking fluoride supplements, consult a health care professional to determine if it is necessary.

Finally: how about a fluoride detox?

Fluoride detoxification involves reducing or eliminating excess fluoride from the body. If you're concerned about overexposure to fluoride, here are some steps you can take to help reduce fluoride levels in your body.

• Drinking pure, clean water is essential for maintaining your body's water balance. Distilled or filtered drinking water can help reduce the amount of fluoride ingested. A filtration system specifically designed to remove fluoride can be useful, but make sure it's effective before adopting it.

• Eat a diet rich in fresh, unprocessed foods. Natural foods tend to contain less fluoride than processed foods.

• Cure of vitamin C, vitamin D et le calcium to help improve overall tooth and bone health, potentially minimizing the negative effects of excessive fluoride exposure. 

• METOUT as a treatment to eliminate heavy metals and accelerate detox. 

• Regular exercise boosts blood circulation and metabolism, stimulating the elimination of toxins from the body.

• Supervised fasting.

• Sauna or hammam to activate perspiration.

• Reduce the use of fluoridated toothpaste by using a small amount when brushing and rinsing thoroughly. Avoid fluoride-rich foods, such as processed foods and beverages prepared with fluoridated water.