Water
Fluoridation
Fluoride is a natural
element found in varying amounts in all normal bodies of water. For example,
Lake Michigan’s fluoride level is .17 ppm (parts per million). The fluoride level of the oceans varies from 1.2
ppm – 1.4 ppm. In the United States, the natural level of fluoride in
ground water varies from very low levels to over 4 ppm. Water fluoridation is
the adjustment of the natural fluoride concentration in fluoride-deficient water to the level recommended for optimal dental
health. Based on extensive research, the United States Public Health Service
(USPHS) established the optimal concentration of fluoride in the water for the United States in the range of
.7 – 1.4 ppm. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention proclaimed
community water fluoridation one of the 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century. Studies show that water fluoridation reduces lifetime dental decay by up to 40%.
Periodically,
anecdotal or non-verifiable studies will claim fluoridation in water causes health problems (such as cancer, hair loss, tiredness,
etc.). Such studies have never been able to stand up to scientific scrutiny and
invariably appeal to an “alarm” mentality instead of reason. Many
substances of usefulness are dangerous when used in excessive quantities. For
example half an aspirin a day may help prevent heart attacks and one or two safely helps relieve headaches---but take a whole
handful and it will kill you. Most anti-fluoridation studies are run using fluoride
in concentrations far higher than anyone ever could or would ingest. It is not
surprising, that, under those conditions, negative effects occur. Because we
live in America the people of each community have the freedom to choose whether or not to fluoridate their water. As a dentist with expertise in this area, I believe water fluoridation is important
in helping to prevent tooth decay. It is one of the easiest ways to increase
dental health (unlike flossing which requires some skill and effort). My family
and I routinely drink fluoridated water and I would recommend you do as well.
Fluoridation
is especially of benefit to children whose permanent teeth are still forming (generally ages 14 and under). If you have a well (the wells in our area tend to have low levels of natural fluoride) and your child does
not get fluoridated water to drink from any other source (such as a day care center or school) we will be happy to prescribe
fluoride supplements for you (usually chewable tablets). Please ask us if you
have any questions!
