According to the Fluoride Action Network, fluoride literally affects human growth. And, consumers digest fluoride without even knowing it. That’s because in most cases, fluoride is added to the local drinking water.
Yet, pediatricians and dentists insist the fluoride is needed in order to promote healthy teeth and gums. And, it’s because of that dental experts recommend that both infant and children are given a fluoride supplement. This can be in the form of fluoride toothpaste, or fluoride in water.
To Fluoride or Not to Fluoride Water?
So, should you have fluoride in water? Well, there doesn’t really seem to be a simple “yes or no” answer to this question:
In 2012, a results from a fluoride study were published in a paper entitled, “Developmental Fluoride Neurotoxicity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” According to study, evidence of impairment of the neurological system was found in kids who were exposed to fluoride in high levels. The children with high fluoride exposure were tested and found to have lower IQs in comparison to the kids with low fluoride level exposure.
Now, it’s important to note that the study was a compilation of multiple studies of populations in rural Chinese areas. In these areas, fluoride levels in untreated groundwater tens to reach levels much higher than what the EPA considers safe in the US. However, the evidence does suggest that high levels of fluoride does cause some types of neurological impairment.
According to the American Dental Association, when an entire population is fluoridated, there’s a 20-40% reduction in cavities overall. This data suggests that it’s important for both children and adults to brush with toothpaste containing fluoride. Experts who are pro-fluoride believe that it’s important to have fluoride in water, to be on the safe this. They believe this is a safeguard for those who can’t afford fluoride toothpaste, or simply don’t practice healthy oral hygiene.
Negative Effects of Cavities VS Negative Effects of Fluoride
It’s often suggested by dentists that anti-fluoride activists put too much stock in the negative effects of fluoride, versus that of dental cavities. But, the fact is, cavities are the #1 chronic disease in children.
Kids who suffer tooth decay by six years old are 14-times more likely to suffer from it after their permanent teeth grow in. Expert have also found that there are direct links between overall health and periodontal and dental diseases. Those who suffer from oral diseases have an increased rate of suffering from autoimmune and cardiovascular disease as adults.
So, the question remains: Should you have fluoride in water or not? Well, Bridge Creek Dental believes that people need to make this decision for themselves.
Just know that you do have options:
- Getting internal fluoride from your dentist
- Using fluoride containing toothpaste
- Drinking water with fluoride in it
American dentists believe that fluoride is very beneficial when it comes to fighting plaque. If plaque gets out of control, it can lead to tooth decay, cavities, gum disease and various types of dental diseases. Fluoride helps reduce cavities in both adults and children.