UNSUSPECTED EFFECTS OF FLUORIDE ADMINISTRATION

Abstract

Fluoride is widely used in the prevention of dental decay and as treatment of caries, through dentifrices, mouth rinses and artificially fluoridated drinking water. The exposure at these sources of fluoride hardly produces undesirable effects. In contrast, ingestion of water with high levels of fluoride in fluorosis areas and therapeutic doses such as used in the prevention or treatment of some bone diseases can produce hyperparathyroidism, changes in bone resistance, modification of signaling pathways and alterations in hormone secretion. Nevertheless, the most common side effect described is dyspepsia and low extremity pain syndrome. Exposure to industrial wastes and the administration of some anesthetics that metabolizes to fluoride can produce renal failure. This effect has never been described in prevention of caries or in the treatment of bone diseases.