Fluoride in Drinking Water: Benefits, Effectiveness, and Safety
History of Fluoride in Drinking Water
Fluoride was first added to drinking water in Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1945. This decision was based on research conducted by Dr. Fredrick McKay, who noticed that people in Colorado Springs with brown stains on their teeth had less tooth decay. McKay theorized that the stains were caused by fluoride in the water supply, and that fluoride could help prevent tooth decay.
In 1945, Grand Rapids began a study to test McKay’s theory. The study found that adding fluoride to the water supply reduced tooth decay by 50%-70% among children. This led to the United States recommending an optimum water fluoride concentration range of 0.7-1.2ppm in 1962.
Effectiveness of Fluoride in Preventing Tooth Decay
Fluoride is effective in preventing tooth decay because it strengthens tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to acid attacks. Fluoride also helps to remineralize teeth, which is the process of repairing small areas of damage.
Several studies have shown that fluoride in drinking water is effective in reducing tooth decay. A literature review conducted in 2010 found that the combined effects of fluoride—water delivered or otherwise—prevented about .3 caries per person every year. About one-third of that effect came from fluoride in the water.
Importance of Fluoride for Public Health
Fluoride is an important public health measure, especially for people who don’t have access to regular dental care. Fluoride in drinking water helps to reduce tooth decay and improve oral health for everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
In Portland, Oregon, which is the largest U.S. city to reject fluoridation, supporters of fluoride pointed out that Portland kids have 40% more dental decay than kids in Seattle, a nearby fluoridated community.
Safety of Fluoride in Drinking Water
The FDA considers fluoride a contaminant because it can be toxic at high levels. However, the amount of fluoride recommended for water fluoridation is safe and effective.
Some studies have suggested that fluoride exposure may be linked to certain health problems, such as IQ loss and bone cancer. However, these studies have been criticized for their methodology and conclusions.
The CDC states that “there is no convincing evidence that fluoride in drinking water at the recommended levels causes any adverse health effects.”
The Debate Over Fluoride in Portland
The debate over fluoride in Portland has been going on for decades. Anti-fluoride campaigners have raised concerns about the safety of fluoride, while pro-fluoride advocates have emphasized its benefits for public health.
In 2013, Portland voted against adding fluoride to its water supply for the fourth time. However, the debate is likely to continue, as fluoride remains a controversial issue.
Conclusion
Fluoride is an effective and safe way to prevent tooth decay. It is an important public health measure that benefits everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status. The debate over fluoride is likely to continue, but the evidence supports the benefits of fluoride in drinking water.