Metabolism and Toxicity of Fluorides

Fluoride is like a double-edged sword as it is proved to be one of the most successful measures for the prevention of dental caries in public-health history but at the same time its toxicity at higher levels has also been well established. In terms of fluoride toxicity, the high levels of fluoride in the system may have a range of the effects. These effects can be classified as acute, due to a single ingestion of a large amount of fluoride or chronic, due to long term ingestion of smaller amounts. To understand the biological effects of fluoride, a thorough knowledge of fluoride metabolism is necessary. This book explains in detail the various sources of fluoride intake, metabolism of fluorides, its toxicity, management and prevention.