Fluoride

Strengthens tooth enamel and inhibits caries processes; also accumulates in bone.

Swiss reference value

Switzerland age 18–65: 2.9 mg/day women, 3.4 mg/day men.

Good food sources

Drinking water depending on region, tea and seafood; the main topical source is fluoride toothpaste.

When intake or status is low

Low exposure increases caries susceptibility but is not a classic systemic deficiency disease.

Long-term health connections

Caries also depends on sugar frequency, oral hygiene, saliva and dental care.

Skin, hair and nails

Dental caries is multifactorial and does not prove fluoride deficiency.

Who is more at risk

No topical fluoride source and high caries risk.

How to assess it

Dental risk assessment rather than blood testing.

Supplements: when to consider

Use fluoride toothpaste according to age/dental guidance; systemic supplements only when targeted.

Too much and safety

Excess during tooth development causes dental fluorosis; extremely high chronic exposure can harm bone.

International reference systems