FluorideCommonly Asked Questions About Fluoride
Community water fluoridation has been a longstanding practice and is considered by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to be one of the ten greatest public health achievements of the 20th century. The practice in the United States first began in 1945 in Grand Rapids, MI and rapidly achieved widespread use after strong encouragement to communities by the U.S. Surgeon General in 1950.
Fluoride, a mineral found in natural water sources, has properties that strengthen tooth enamel and fight against decay or cavities. Fluoride is also used in many dental and oral health applications to strengthen teeth, and the practice of community water fluoridation continues to be recommended by the CDC and the American Dental Association (ADA).
Common Questions About Fluoride
Below are some commonly asked questions and resources with more information about fluoride.
What is fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in natural water sources, including spring water. Fluoride strengthens the enamel in your teeth and naturally protects against cavities and tooth decay.
Is fluoride safe?
Yes, at the right concentration. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends and enforces an maximum range of fluoride in water and the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) puts forth a standard acceptable range.
The recommended level for fluoride in water from the HHS is 0.7 parts per million, which equates to about 3 drops in 55 gallons of water.
Similar to overconsumption of other minerals like sodium, potassium, and calcium, overconsumption of fluoride can create problems like dental fluorosis, the discoloration on teeth found with excessive consumption. This is why the recommended levels for community water are kept low enough for optimal public safety.
When was fluoride first added to public drinking water?
In 1945, Grand Rapids, Michigan became the first city worldwide to fluoridate their drinking water. Several other cities began trialing the process to great success, leading the ADA to endorse the program in June 1950. That same year, the U.S. Surgeon General “strongly encouraged” communities to proceed with fluoridation of their water supply and other cities began to rapidly follow suit.
By 1975, approximately 100 million Americans were receiving fluoridated tap water.
What are the benefits of community water fluoridation?
As shown in the University of Alaska Anchorage case study, Juneau children had an increase of roughly 1 cavity procedure per year after the removal of fluoride vs. before. While some families can still supplement fluoride with toothpaste, fluoridated water supply provides health equity to all population in the city and raises overall dental health.
Lower cases of dental cavities in a community also reduces the occurrence of tooth pain, the cost of fillings, and reduces absences from school or work due to dental issues.
What are the common applications of fluoride?
Fluoride is found in natural water sources, but when extracted and isolated, can be applied in the following ways:
- Added to water in dry or liquid form to municipal tap water to serve community health
- Active ingredient in oral hygiene products like toothpaste and mouthwash to prevent cavities
- Can be topically applied by dental professionals at a higher concentration to strengthen teeth
Resources
- CDC Scientific Statement on Community Water Fluoridation
- CDC: Timeline for Community Water Fluoridation
- ADA Fluoride: Topical and Systemic Supplements
- ADA Publication: Fluoridation Facts
- University of Alaska Anchorage Fluoride Removal Case Study
- NPR report on the UAA Case Study
- EPA: Questions and Answer on Fluoride
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Fluoride Fast Facts
