You are in Drugs and Herbs . Fluoride occurs naturally in some foods, and supplements are also available, with a physician's prescription. What It Does Fluoride helps the body retain the calcium it needs for strong bones and teeth. It Fluoride supplements are prescribed to prevent dental cavities in children living where the fluoride level in the drinking water is inadequate. Children who need extra fluoride generally keep taking supplements until they are 16 years old.
Physicians also use fluoride, along with calcium and vitamin D to treat osteoporosis.
It is important to note that this treatment must be supervised by a doctor. A dose of fluoride 2,500 times the standard recommendation can be fatal. Smaller overdoses can eventually lead to stomach cramps or pain, diarrhea, black stools, and vomiting, which could be bloody. A feeling of faintness, shallow breathing, increased saliva, tremors, and an unusual feeling of excitement are also potential warning signs of fluoride toxicity. Stop taking fluoride and call your doctor if you develop any of these symptoms.