There continues to be quite a bit of debate surrounding fluoridated water and whether it is really good for us or not. Since the 1940’s, the United States has been adding fluoride into public water systems in an attempt to help more people have access to the chemical and avoid tooth decay. Supporters of fluoride in our water point to the sharp decline of dental issues since the time fluoride was first added to our water. Others argue that adding fluoride to public water is a form of mass medication without individual consent.
How Does Fluoride Work?
When fluoride enters our mouths, it begins to bond with the enamel on our teeth. This helps to protect teeth from the acids that form when sugar and carbs combine with the naturally occurring bacteria in our mouths. That is why fluoride is used in toothpaste. It can make a huge difference in our ability to fight off cavities.
When doctors and scientists first realized what an important role fluoride can play in fighting tooth decay, they began recommending that more people, especially children, should be using it.
The American Dental Association endorses water fluoridation. They consider the process a safe and effective way of reducing cavities. Since public water is typically more accessible to underprivileged children than a toothbrush and toothpaste, dentists often feel that fluoridated water is a good way of helping those children maintain a healthy mouth.
Can Fluoride be Bad For Us?
Just like anything, there can be adverse effects of fluoride when it is taken in excess. Studies show that a long term overexposure to fluoride might lead to issues in our bones, kidneys and other areas of our bodies. The research shows that in order for fluoride to cause this type of damage, an extreme amount would need to be consumed over an extended period of time.
There are also some isolated incidents that have been reported over the years of fluoride poisoning, where people come in contact with too much fluoride. This can lead to stomach issues if not treated correctly.
Using Toothpaste
The good news is, the amount of fluoride in our water and even in the toothpaste we use each day, (at least twice, right?), is not high enough to cause problems. This is true even when a child swallows too much toothpaste as they are learning to brush their teeth.
We suggest that you continue to drink water and brush your teeth as you normally would without stressing about the amount of fluoride you are consuming. The positives of fluoride in our water far outweigh the negative. If you have specific questions or concerns about fluoride, feel free to give me or anyone on my team a call. Here at Smile Concepts we are happy to answer any questions you might have.
