| [ Summary ] |
Fluorine (F) is a natural element, widely present in our environment, including food and drink. Inorganic compounds containing fluoride ions, with elemental fluorine being an anion, are called fluorides. Fluorides have traditionally been used to treat osteoporosis. In addition, they are clinically applied for the prevention of dental caries, with significant effects. Acute intoxication due to accidental ingestion of a large amount of fluoride, bone fluorosis (osteosclerosis) due to chronic ingestion of excess fluoride in drinking water, and dental fluorosis (mottled teeth) are known to be adverse effects associated with excess fluoride intake. However, pathological conditions, such as spinal ligament ossification in bone fluorosis and white turbidity, as well as coloring of the tooth surface in dental fluorosis, are rare events. Currently, the prevention of dental caries with fluoride remains insufficient in Japan, therefore, it should be promoted in the future. |