You may be surprised to learn that the water in Paris is not fluoridated. While this is of no particular concern to adults, American dentists typically recommend oral fluoride supplements for children up to the age of 16 who live in areas with unfluoridated water. While using a fluoridated toothpaste is important at any age, children benefit from systemic fluoride while their teeth are growing. The recommended levels of fluoride are shown below.
Source: "Recommendations for Using Fluoride to Prevent and Control Dental Caries in the United States," Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, August 17, 2001. Available on-line at http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5014a1.htm#tab1
Too much fluoride can mottle teeth permanently so the decision whether or not to supplement is one that requires thought and consultation with your dentist. Fluoride supplements (in pill and liquid form, more appropriate for little ones) are available in many pharmacies as long as you have a prescription.
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