Household Fluoride Poisoning

Are your little people up to mischief when they’re quiet?

Ours are! Especially in the bathroom, there’s water, soap, toys, toothbrushes and toothpaste – loads of fun to be had by some curious children. It may seem harmless enough, but did you know that adult toothpaste can be harmful to children? In fact, it’s scary to say, but snacking on a full tube of adult toothpaste can render your little one seriously ill requiring hospitalisation and ingestion of two tubes may in fact be fatal.

Why is this?

It’s because of the fluoride content in toothpaste. Fluoride is a mineral that occurs in most naturally occurring water sources including sea water and in small doses is one of the most powerful protective measures one can take to prevent tooth decay. However, in very high concentrated doses it effects cellular metabolism and interferes with calcium absorption leading to serious cardiovascular issues and electrolyte imbalances such as low calcium and low potassium levels.

Research has shown that fluoride not only reduces cavities in children and adults, but it also helps repair the very early stages of tooth decay. Fluoride is the best cavity fighter to help keep the whole family's teeth strong — no matter their ages – just at the right dose! So keep your toothpaste in a safe spot where little inquisitive people can’t exercise their taste buds on this seemingly benign but potentially dangerous household staple.

If at any stage you think that your children may have ingested a large amount of toothpaste, see your GP or go immediately to emergency to ensure they are adequately care for. You can also call the Poisons Information Line 24 hours a day from anywhere in Australia on 13 11 26, however if they are exhibiting any signs of being seriously ill, such as vomiting, loss of consciousness, drowsiness or seizures (fits), call triple zero (000) for an ambulance immediately.

Cameron, A., and Widmer, R. (1997), Handbook of Paediatric Dentistry