The Benefits of Fluoridation

For three-quarters of a century the benefits of drinking water containing fluoride at a level of between 0.7 and 1.0 ppm have been documented and researched extensively. Much of the most compelling information has come from epidemiological research, which is the study of the incidence and prevalence of disease in large populations.

Fluoride is now considered to have two major benefits for teeth:

1. In babies, before the formation and eruption of the first set of teeth, fluoridated water absorbed via the mother or in other ways has been found to produce smoother tooth surfaces and stronger enamel. Fewer indentations and irregularities in tooth surfaces provide less opportunity for decay-causing bacteria to lodge and grow, and stronger enamel protects teeth from bacteria more effectively.
2. Fluoridated liquids, when swallowed, pass over the teeth and have “topical” or surface effects on teeth. Trace elements of fluoride at optimal levels (0.7-1.0ppm) destroy bacteria that use sugars and starch to make acids which eat away at tooth enamel and allow decay to begin. The fluoride also works with the elements of tooth enamel, exchanging ions to repair and rebuild minor damage to the enamel before decay can take hold. These benefits last for the lifetime of teeth, in adults and children.

Other Forms of Fluoride

Fluoride can be ingested in other forms. Some people use fluoride tablets or other “topical” products. These help, but aren’t as effective. For example, with tablets you must take them daily and their protection doesn’t last for 24 hours. Also, many of those who need fluoride most either cannot afford the tablets or don’t receive them for other reasons.

Some countries and areas that don’t fluoridate their water, either for political reasons or because of the complexity or fragmentation of their water supply systems, increase fluoride levels in salt or milk instead. Like the tablets, these methods do work, but not as well as fluoridating water supplies.

A New Zealand Study: Community Benefits