Is there an age at which fluoride intake is most critical?

At all ages, fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay. Tooth decay is by far the most common and costly oral health problem in all age groups.

Fluoride is especially important for children, while teeth are forming. It strengthens tooth enamel making it stronger and more resistant to cavities. It is the most efficient way to prevent one of the most common childhood diseases – dental decay

Fluoride is most critical during childhood when front tooth enamel and primary and permanent teeth are still developing.  Fluoride is often added to dental products such as toothpaste and public drinking water to prevent cavities in both children and adults. Caution should be taken with its use in infants, toddlers and young children, however.

The American Dental Association recommends not using toothpaste with fluoride on children under 2 years old, and mouthwash with fluoride on children under 6 years old, because they might swallow it.