Are all public water supplies fluoridated?
In California, the most populous of the 50 U.S. states, only 27 percent of people served by community systems were getting fluoridated water as of 2006, the CDC said. Only Hawaii (8 percent) and New Jersey (23 percent) were lower. Fluoridation has remained controversial among some people.
What is meant by the fluoridation of water?
Water fluoridation is the process of adding fluoride to the water supply so the level reaches approximately 0.7 ppm, or 0.7 milligrams of fluoride per liter of water; this is the optimal level for preventing tooth decay (1).
What are the major effects of water fluoridation?
Introduction. It is well established that fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and that fluoride prevents caries, tooth decay, tooth loss, and cavities (e.g., Twetman et al.
Is fluoridation of water ethical?
It is concluded that fluoridation is beneficial and that there is no ethical reason to oppose it, based on a specific kind of ethics developed to analyse and clarify complex public health issues.
What are the disadvantages of fluoridation?
7 Side Effects of Consuming Fluoride You Should Know About
- Tooth Discoloration. Consumption of too much of fluoride leads to yellowed or browned teeth.
- Tooth Decay. High intake fluoridated water can lead to the weakening of enamel.
- Skeletal Weakness.
- Neurological Problems.
- High Blood Pressure.
- Acne.
- Seizures.
What are the effects of fluoridation?
Absorbing too much fluoride can impair normal development of enamel in teeth before they erupt, and the effects may not be visible until 4-5 years after exposure. They include white streaks on the enamel surface and, in more severe cases, porous areas of enamel, pitting and discolouration of the tooth surface.
Do dentists support water fluoridation?
Generally, however, dentists do support water fluoridation as an effective practice, although the level of support varies across and within countries.
Which states do not fluoridate their water?
Some major cities still do not fluoridate their water supplies, including: San Diego; Portland, Oregon; Honolulu, Hawaii; and Wichita, Kansas.
Is smart water fluoridated?
According to the Smartwater label, their bottled water contains 0 ppm of fluoride. This was confirmed by the fluoride meter which registered 0.0 ppm, confirming that Smartwater does not have fluoride.
Who invented water fluoridation?
National Institute of Health (NIH) Drs Trendley Dean and Elias Elvove first came up with a method to measure fluoride levels in water. Together, they developed a state-of-the-art method to measure fluoride levels in water with an accuracy of 0.1 parts per million (ppm).
What are the pros and cons of fluoridation?
One of the disadvantages of fluoride is a neurotoxin which can be harmful if taken in high doses, as excessive exposure can result in teeth discoloration and bone problems. However, it is my belief that advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Fluoride is a natural product which is generally safe and effective.
What are the pros of fluoride?
Fluoride prevents tooth decay by making teeth stronger and more resistant to acid attacks. It also helps with slowing down or stopping the decay process. When fluoride levels in water are at optimal levels, it helps to protect teeth against cavities.
How do you advocate for water fluoridation?
Civic leadership, such as that exhibited in political campaigns, is one way in which dentists can promote water fluoridation. Advocacy through dental societies, such as participation in lobbying efforts, also may be an effective way for dentists to promote water fluoridation.
What state has the most fluoride in water?
Hawaii
b. Reported in CDC Water Fluoridation Reporting System (WFRS)….2012 State Fluoridation Percentage Calculations and States Ranked by Fluoridation Percentage.
| State | Hawaii |
|---|---|
| Persons receiving fluoridated water | 139,598 |
| Persons served by CWS | 1,290,549 |
| % | 10.8% |
| Rank | 50 |
What percent of US has fluoridated water?
73.0%
Water Fluoridation Data & Statistics In 2018, 73.0% of the US population on community water systems, or 207,426,535 people, had access to fluoridated water.