When it comes to fluoride in water, there are many misconceptions and myths out there. Fluoride exists naturally in virtually all water supplies and has been recognized as an important nutrient for healthy teeth. Fluoride is a mineral and, in the correct amounts, having it in our drinking water strengthens our teeth. Just as iodine is added to salt and folic acid is added to breads and cereals, fluoride is one of several examples of how an everyday product is fortified to improve our health. It is important to separate the facts from fiction. Community water fluoridation (CWF) is safe, effective, and necessary to protect teeth of all ages.
Fluoride in water is one of the best ways to prevent a very common childhood disease: tooth decay. The ADA estimates 51 million school hours and 164 million work hours are lost each year due to a dental-related illness. The CDC has even called CWF (community water fluoridation) one of the ten greatest public health achievements of the 20th century. CWF also protected people of all ages from cavities. Studies by the ADA show that CWF systems prevent at least 25% of tooth decay in children and adults. Not only has this process been endorsed by the U.S. surgeons general, but also hundreds of health organizations such as the CDC, World Health Organization, ADA, and many more continue to recognize its effectiveness. The average lifetime cost per person to fluoridate a water supply is less than the cost of a dental filling.
The benefits of community water fluoridation vastly outweigh any negatives that some people claim. The fact of the matter is that it is safe, backed by hundreds of health organizations, and proven to protect your teeth and help prevent tooth decay.