At Affinia Healthcare, we are committed to helping families stay healthy, including maintaining healthy smiles. A recent statement by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has raised questions about fluoride use in children. Here is what you should know, based on guidance from the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD):

     – On October 31, 2025, the FDA posted an announcement stating that children under age 3 or children with low‐to‐moderate risk of tooth decay should not be given unapproved ingestible fluoride products.

     – The FDA’s action applies to products children swallow, and not to fluoride toothpaste, professionally applied varnish, or fluoridated water.

     – The AAPD and ADA both affirm that fluoride is safe and effective in preventing tooth decay. If you are worried about fluoride exposure for your children, here are some tips:

          – Begin brushing when the first baby tooth appears with a smear (roughly rice‐grain sized) of fluoride toothpaste for children under age 3.

          – For children aged 3-6 years, use a pea‐sized amount of fluoride toothpaste twice daily, and supervise brushing.

Fluoride remains a key tool in preventing dental decay, especially in children, and it is safe and effective. The recent FDA statement does not change everyday guidance on fluoride toothpaste or professional fluoride treatments. If you have questions or concerns about fluoride for your child, schedule a visit with one of our dental providers, we are here and happy to help.

Dr. Michele Abidin, Dental Director

Dr. Kendra Holmes, President & CEO