Among dental and health professionals it’s almost universally accepted that adding a controlled amount of fluoride to drinking water helps prevent cavities and decreases the incidence of tooth decay. Searching “fluoridation” on Google may tell you a different story, however.
The internet is saturated with sites and groups opposing fluoride in community water systems. Most tell a similar story, claiming that fluoridation causes untold number of health problems—everything from AIDS to heart disease. The more outrageous sites will lead you to believe that fluoride is a form of mind control which makes the citizenry more accepting of government takeover (No, we aren’t making this up).
For intelligent and scientifically founded information about fluoridation, check out the Fluoride and Fluoridation page on the American Dental Association’s website.
Every day the enamel layer of your teeth comes under attack by plaque and other harmful bacteria. The acids generated by these bacteria demineralize your teeth and can lead to tooth decay. Minerals such as fluoride, calcium and phosphate are redeposited to your teeth by what you eat and drink. Water fluoridation helps with this remineralization process and is one of the most effective public health initiatives of the 20th century.
Water fluoridation is supported and advocated by the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, the American Medical Association, the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
If you have any questions about the safety of fluoridated water or need to schedule a dental appointment, contact Greenspoint Dental today.