In The News
The following healthcare topics have recently been covered by news outlets. To help patients make the best decisions for their oral health, summaries are provided below.
Fluoride Use: What You Should Know
Lately, concerns about excessive fluoride intake and related toxicity have been raised worldwide, leading several countries to ban fluoridation. While some legitimate studies have identified risks from excessive fluoride exposure, false or misleading fluoride information spread by social media users has created a disproportionate amount of fear in the public.
There are significant data supporting the safety and efficacy of fluoride use to prevent cavities. Following are some facts about fluoride provided by the American Dental Association.
What Is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that plays an important role in keeping teeth strong and healthy. It has been used for decades to help prevent tooth decay in persons of all ages.
Fluoride is found in soil, water, and some foods. It is also commonly added to community drinking water, toothpaste, and mouth rinses, and used in professional dental treatments.
Fluoride works by strengthening tooth enamel, making teeth more resistant to cavities.
Why Fluoride Is Used
Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making teeth more resistant to cavities.
Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic oral conditions worldwide. Fluoride helps prevent cavities, repair the early stages of tooth decay, and potentially reduce the need for more complex dental treatments.
Is Fluoride Safe?
Fluoride has been extensively studied and is considered safe and effective when used as recommended. Major health and dental organizations support the use of fluoride in community water systems and dental products, especially since the typical daily exposure is well within established safety guidelines.
Acetaminophen during Pregnancy
A NIH-funded study published in JAMA Psychiatry in 2019 found an association (not causation) between higher levels of acetaminophen in umbilical cord blood and an increased risk for autism or ADHD diagnoses. In 2024, these findings were followed up with one of the largest and most controlled studies to date which analyzed 2.5 million children in Sweden and found no causal link when comparing siblings (which helps control for genetic factors).
More recently, conflicting information provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on the link between acetaminophen and autism has brought the topic back into the spotlight.
Following are some facts about acetaminophen provided by the American Dental Association, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American Academy of Pediatrics.
What is acetaminophen?
Acetaminophen (often known by the brand name Tylenol®) is commonly used to treat pain and reduce fever. Some periodontists may recommend the use of acetaminophen as a way to treat mild pain during treatment.
Is acetaminophen safe during pregnancy?
Acetaminophen is generally considered the preferred option for short-term pain or fever relief during pregnancy when used as directed. Untreated fever, in particular, can pose risks during pregnancy.
Important considerations
- Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible.
- Avoid combining multiple products that contain acetaminophen.
- Always follow label instructions or your healthcare provider’s guidance.
Ongoing research
Researchers continue to study the long-term effects of many medications used during pregnancy, including acetaminophen. While some studies have explored possible associations with developmental outcomes, no definitive cause-and-effect relationship has been established, and medical and dental organizations continue to support cautious, appropriate use when needed.
The AAP strongly encourages patients to consult with their providers on any of their oral health-related questions.
