Formula, Fluoride and Fluorosis
Everyone agrees that the best source
of nutrition for an infant is breast milk. The next best thing? Infant formula.
However, despite its nutritional value, some types of infant formula have the
potential to foster a condition known as dental fluorosis that involves changes
in the appearance of the tooth’s surface. The tooth enamel is degraded due to
an overexposure to fluoride before teeth erupt. Generally, fluorosis is not
noticeable; it usually shows up as little white spots that are visible only to
dental professionals. In its most severe form, fluorosis can cause brown stains
on the permanent teeth.
Formula comes in three formulations:
powder, liquid concentrate and ready-to-feed. Major infant formula brands have
very little if any fluoride. The problem is not with the formula—it is with the
water used to mix the formula. Because fluoride helps prevent tooth decay in
the general population, approximately 72% of all public water systems in the
United States adjust the fluoride levels in the water to obtain the optimal
dose for everyone age eight and older. But that means that if you are mixing
powdered or concentrated formula with tap water, you will increase the fluoride
in the formula to a level that may be too high for infants. Because formula can
be the primary source of an infant’s nutrition, it is easy to see how this can
contribute to the onset of fluorosis.
There are two easy ways to remedy
this, but they take a concentrated effort by the parent. Use ready-made
formula—that’s the best option because you won’t be adding any additional
fluoride to your child’s diet. However, if you do use a powdered or
concentrated formula, use bottled water labeled demineralized, distilled,
purified or de-ionized to reconstitute or dilute the formula. That will reduce
the level of fluoride your infant is being exposed to and help secure the
development of his or her esthetically pleasing smile.
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