Long-term, exposure to high levels of fluoride salts in water can cause mottling of teeth in children, fluorosis of bone, and sometimes osteosclerosis in adults and children. HF is not considered a developmental or reproductive hazard, although there have been rare cases of mottling of first teeth in infants born to mothers who had high daily intakes of fluoride during pregnancy. However, low doses of fluoride are thought to be essential for normal fetal development in humans. HF is not listed as a carcinogen or suspected carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, the National Toxicology Program, OSHA, or the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. When exposures are promptly and successfully treated, results are generally favorable.
Improper treatment can result in permanent damage, disability, or death.
Treatment is directed toward binding of the fluoride ion to prevent tissue destruction. Speed is of the essence. The treatments specified for contact or suspected contact follow. Skin contact 1. Move victim immediately to safety shower or other water source and flush affected area thoroughly with large amounts of cool running water.