fluorine
Last reviewed 10/2023
Fluorine is a gaseous element that is present within the body as a trace mineral as the fluoride ion. Fluoride is widely distributed as an extracellular ion.
Fluoride is ingeted from a wide variety of food sources and from water supplies in which fluoride has been added - fluoridation. Fluoridation has been shown to reduce the incidence of dental caries.
Fluoride is excreted by the kidneys.
Excessive fluoride intake e.g. due to industrial poisoning, can cause fluorosis.
Fluor- or fluoro- are the prefixes for agents containing or relating to fluorine.