The Debate Over Fluoridated Water And Why You Should Make It Your Business
Thursday, May 14th, 2009
Each year, one debate goes on across the country: Should we continue to add fluorine to drinking water? Dentists and oral care professionals argue that fluorination is an important tool in the fight against tooth decay. Some religious, environmental, and political groups state that this violates human rights and is actually detrimental to the oral health of many.
Dental Associations And Health Organizations Fight To Keep Fluoride In Water
Water authorities have added fluoride to public water since the 1940s in an effort to combat tooth decay, which occurs in 60-90% of the population. By adding fluorosilicic acid, sodium fluorosilicate, or sodium fluoride, governments can reduce the occurrence of cavities by up to 40%. It is completely odorless, tasteless, and invisible to the naked eye.
When you drink fluorinated water, the fluoride mixes with the saliva in your mouth to create a protective barrier. This slows down the demineralization of tooth enamel and promotes the repair of early cavities. It is possible to get too much fluoride leading to a condition known as dental fluorosis. However, this only extremely mild and does not cause and health problems or aesthetic malformations.
Opposing Groups
Organizations such as political, human rights, environmental, and religious groups such as Christian Scientists are greatly opposed to the fluoridation of water. Some see it as a violation of human rights because it is forced on the individual.
Others say it is unnecessary and has no benefits. And others argue that it is part of a large conspiracy. Those focused on natural living or who believe traditional medicines are evil, see fluoride as being a direct violation of their beliefs and rights. One final argument is cost — however, this argument is clearly unfounded. A yearly fluoride treatment from the dentist costs an average of $83. For one person to get the same amount of fluoride from toothpaste, it would cost $8-$16 per person for a year. Fluoridated water cost only $0.93 per person per year.
To avoid the fluoride, many members of these groups live on natural or bottled water. However, both of these water sources contain natural fluoride, and in some instances, in higher doses than found in public water systems.
Alternatives To Fluorinated Water
Dental sealants and fluoride treatments, toothpaste, and gel are all suitable alternatives to fluorinated water. Education on things such as proper oral hygiene and proper diets can also help significantly. Salt and milk have both been fortified with fluoride in some instances. Extensive tests and studies have shown that the best option is still water because most people from all walks of life have access to it.
Dentist and oral care professionals have noticed a significant drop in the occurrence of cavities in both children and adults. For children and adults who do not have access to a dentist, and live below the poverty line, milk, toothpaste and other items are often inaccessible. And, with no real negative effects of any kind, there is no reason to keep fluoride out of the water.
