Like many other minerals, fluoride can be toxic if you consume it in high doses. However, if you brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, the amount of it is too small to present a risk. If your dentist prescribes additional fluoride treatments, it’s important to use them as directed.
Children ages 8 and younger are at risk for developing dental fluorosis, or discoloration on their teeth, if they use too much fluoride over a long period of time. This is because their permanent teeth are below the gumline and still developing.