Did you know that you can get too much of a good thing? We all know that fluoride is important to the health of our children’s teeth, but did you know that too much is not good? It is especially harmful to kids under the age of 8 (whose teeth are still developing under the gums). Too much fluoride can cause permanent damage to the enamel. This condition is called fluorosis. In the beginning you may only see small white spots on the teeth, but over time they can become brown. A dentist cannot remove these spots with polishing. The problem is not necessarily with fluoridated water…it actually helps make the teeth strong and resistant to decay. It is the over-consumption of toothpaste that is the issue. That is why it is extremely important that children do not swallow toothpaste. Parents should always supervise young children when they are brushing, and only use a ‘pea’ size amount of toothpaste. Also, there is no reason to purchase any of the new fluoridated flavored waters…plain is better. Like the old saying goes….”less is more”! -Karen