TEETH: Fluoride evil - to cavities

"Fluoride Fight," on Sunday, June 5, correctly credited fluoride with dramatically reducing cavities and tooth decay. In the 1950s, before water fluoridation was common, most people over the age of 65 had lost their teeth. Now, after decades of widespread fluoridation, more seniors are keeping most or all of their teeth.

According to the Pew Center on the States, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Dental Association and the American Medical Association recognize the benefits of fluoridation. Twelve states and the District of Columbia guarantee residents access to fluoridated water. Forty-three of the 50 largest cities in the United States fluoridate their drinking water. Research shows that every $1 invested in water fluoridation saves $38 in unnecessary dental costs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention call water fluoridation "one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century."

The new recommended water fluoridation level has been reduced. We get fluoride from a variety of sources including toothpaste, mouth rinses and other products that didn't contain fluoride decades ago. These products work together with fluoridated water to provide dental benefits to people of all ages and incomes. A 2010 study published in General Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry's peer-reviewed clinical journal, confirmed that the most effective source of fluoride is water fluoridation.

Tooth decay remains a chronic childhood problem. The U.S. Health and Human Services has reaffirmed the safety and efficacy of optimal community water fluoridation, with science on their side.

LORA WHALEN

Director

Panhandle Health District