The Brief

The Food and Drug Administration said Friday it is restricting the use of fluoride supplements used to strengthen children’s teeth.

Here’s what to know about fluoride and the FDA’s changes:

What is fluoride?

Big picture view:

Fluoride strengthens teeth and reduces cavities by replacing minerals lost during normal wear and tear, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In 1962, the agency set guidelines for how much should be added to water.

Fluoride tablets and lozenges are sometimes recommended for children and teens at increased risk of tooth decay or cavities because of low fluoride in their local drinking water. Companies also sell drops for babies.

FDA fluoride changes

What they're saying:

The FDA said fluoride products are no longer recommended

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