Fluoride

Fluoride: Benefits and safety

Fluoride has been safely used in Canada since the 1940s to help prevent tooth decay. In Brantford and the County of Brant, it is added to public drinking water to protect the whole community by making teeth more resistant to cavities. Fluoride can also occur naturally in private wells, depending on the local rock and minerals.

To keep our water safe, the Safe Drinking Water and Fluoride Monitoring Protocol requires GEPH to regularly check fluoride levels in community water supplies. If your household uses well water, you can bring a sample to the health unit for testing.

Why fluoride matters

Tooth decay is one of the most common and preventable diseases in Canada. Fluoride is scientifically proven to:

• Strengthen tooth enamel
• Reduce harmful acid in the mouth
• Help rebuild lost minerals in teeth

Research on fluoride has been ongoing for more than 70 years. Apart from rare cases of dental or skeletal fluorosis, no other health risks have been linked to fluoride use.

Special notes

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Fluoride is not harmful to your baby during pregnancy or through breast milk.
• Infant formula: Municipal tap water and most bottled water (except carbonated or mineral types) are safe for preparing formula.
• Toothpaste and rinses: Many products contain fluoride. Always follow your dentist’s advice, use the amount recommended on the label, and supervise children to ensure they don’t swallow toothpaste.

Fluoride varnish for children

Your child may qualify for free fluoride varnish treatments at GEPH. These quick, painless treatments can begin as soon as your child’s first baby tooth appears.

• A protective coating is brushed onto the teeth in just a few minutes.
• The varnish strengthens enamel, helps prevent early childhood tooth decay, and can even repair small cavities.
• The coating stays on teeth for the rest of the day to provide lasting protection.

Call us to book your child’s appointment: 519‑900‑9600 ext. 3003 or 519-753-4937 ext. 450