Health experts warn of fluoride misinformation online

Health experts are warning against the spread of misinformation regarding fluoride on social media. Online claims suggesting health risks, poisoning, or reduced intelligence are being contradicted by scientific evidence.

According to the Bundeszahnärztekammer, fluoride is a fundamental component of modern caries prevention alongside daily brushing. Experts note that the significant decline in tooth decay over the last two decades is largely due to the widespread use of fluorides. Dirk Kropp, Managing Director of the initiative proDente e. V., stated that a massive gap exists between scientific facts and online claims, which is increasingly unsettling consumers.

Fluoride works primarily on the tooth surface by strengthening enamel against acid attacks, promoting remineralization, and inhibiting acid-forming bacteria. While the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) advises against taking fluoride via dietary supplements, it considers the use of fluoridated table salt a sensible measure for caries prophylaxis. Small amounts of fluoride are also naturally present in foods such as fish, mineral water, and tea.