Why Is There Fluoride in the US’s Tap Water?
You may have heard about fluoride – whether at the dentist or at work around the water cooler. People have been talking about fluoride in water for decades. The first city to add fluoride to public water was Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1945. Since then, people have debated whether fluoridated drinking water is safe. Many have also wondered why there is fluoride in the US’s tap water at all.
What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in bones, teeth, water, soil, rocks, and plants. It’s popularly used by dentists and in dental products because it can strengthen enamels and help prevent cavities. Fluoride is a typical ingredient in many kinds of toothpaste, mouthwashes, and other over-the-counter supplements.
The Benefits of Fluoride
The United States started adding small amounts of fluoride to tap water for its health benefits. Fluoride can help our bodies in many ways, but its two main benefits are preventing cavities and strengthening enamels.
Prevent cavities. Also called tooth decay, cavities are small holes that form in teeth from poor dental hygiene. People have lost teeth for leaving cavities untreated. Cavities are caused by bacteria buildup that causes damage to teeth. Fluoride is one way to prevent this buildup.
Strengthens enamels. The enamel is the outermost layer of your tooth. Fluoride can strengthen your enamel to protect your teeth against tooth decay better.
Why Is There Fluoride in the US’s Tap Water?
Small amounts of fluoride have been added to US tap water for over 75 years to enhance the dental health of the entire population. According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “fluoridated drinking water has reduced cavities in children and adults by about 25%.” The fluoride in US tap water has also helped families save thousands in healthcare costs related to cavities.
While most homes in the US are serviced by fluoridated tap water (about 75%), not every household has fluoride in their drinking water. For example, any homes that source their water from a well most likely don’t have fluoridated water. If this is the case in your home, you should ensure that you get extra fluoride by using toothpaste or mouthwash that contains fluoride.
Is Fluoridated Drinking Water Safe?
Drinking fluoridated water is completely safe. In fact, it improves the dental health and well-being of all people. The CDC called adding fluoride to public drinking water one of ten great public health achievements of the 20th century. Many other countries, including Spain, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, also fluoridate their tap water. Still, high fluoride levels can cause adverse health effects, so knowing the amount of fluoride in your tap water is important.
Questions About Fluoride? Talk to Us
If you have questions about fluoride and fluoridated drinking water, talking to one of our dentists will help you understand the benefits and risks of fluoride better. At One Manhattan Dental, we deliver first-class oral health and dental care to all of our patients. We are committed to focusing on the best treatment to ensure we deliver at the highest level. One Manhattan Dental provides various services and has a strong referral network of specialists for any outside services.
Connect with our office today to learn more.