The American Dental Association is affirming the safety and efficacy of fluoride in recommended amounts and clarifying its recommendations regarding the use of fluoride toothpaste for children in response to a recent statement by the Texas attorney general.
In a May 1 news release, Attorney General Ken Paxton announced he had launched an investigation into Colgate-Palmolive and Procter & Gamble, accusing them of marketing toothpaste products to parents and children in ways that are “misleading, deceptive, and dangerous.” In the release, he said recommendations from the ADA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for children’s fluoride toothpaste use are based on “the well-known acute and long-term risks associated with fluoride overdose.”
In a statement, the ADA said it “strongly objects” to Mr. Paxton’s assertion, which “grossly mischaracterizes” its recommendations.