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Water Fluoridation
Water fluoridation was an important advancement in
public health. Cities were required to add fluoride to the drinking
water supply. By doing this, fewer cavities occurred and people were
more likely to maintain their teeth better. Fluoride helps to keep
bacteria from breaking down the tooth and causing cavities. Fluoridation
of water occurs naturally in many areas, usually too little or too much.
People who drink well water, use water purification systems, or drink
bottle water, may not be getting fluoride. We usually see more cavities
in these groups of people. Many school aged children are fine because
they drink enough water in school. Also, Americans typically have a diet
that includes many processed foods. Many of these foods are processed in
cities that have water fluoridation and when we consume these foods, we
get the benefit. If a patient is at high risk for cavities, there are
different sources of fluoride that can be used. Consult with your
dentist to find out if you are getting enough fluoride.
Drinking Water Fluoride
An optimal level of fluoride in drinking water is .7-1.2 ppm. City
drinking water has fluoride added at this level. Today, many people
receive most of their drinking water from alternative sources. Most
bottled waters do not contain fluoride. Water purification systems often
remove fluoride that was added. Other people drink well water. Well
water may or may not have an optimal level of fluoride. It is important
to have well water tested to determine the amount of fluoride. Many
companies that sell water purification systems can test the levels of
fluoride. If fluoride is suboptimal whether because of bottled water,
well water, or a water purification system, it needs to be supplemented
back into the diet. For children, fluoride pills can be prescribed. As
teenagers or adults, fluoride rinses can be used to help prevent
cavities. There are also some bottled water companies and water
purification systems that have fluoride. It is important to talk to your
dentist about which sources your family is receiving fluoride from and
assessing cavity risk. If fluoride is low and cavity risk is high,
fluoride needs to be received from other sources.
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