Application of ammonium fluoride under an occlusive patch to the abdomen of a rabbit converts a simple scratch into a double row of sterile pustules. Sodium fluoride produces a similar response, but ammonium chloride does not produce pustules. . . .
It appears that tissue damage and the presence of fluorides result in the ‘sterile pustular response.’ This can be called ‘enhancement of inflammation.’ The concentration of fluoride used will not induce inflammation, but it will enhance inf
We believe that the metals and halogens that produce pustule along the scratch are damaging the body’s defenses against the mediators of inflammation and are therefore exaggerating the early cellular phase of inflammation… Dentrifices (toothpastes) are not made for prolonged contact with tissue; however, even brief exposure might influence preexisting oral pathology. Further clinical observations on the effects of fluoride dentrifices on oral inflammation are indicated.”