Fluoride

More recently than not, fluoride has become such a hot topic in the media for its use in our public water systems and the effects it has on the human body. Understanding what fluoride is, the history of its use throughout the world and locally, its effects on the brain and organs in the body, and its benefits are important aspects for anyone who encounters this substance to consider. 

What is Fluoride?

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally within the Earth and is release from rocks in the soil, water and air. Most, but not all water naturally contains fluoride, but it is usually not enough to prevent tooth decay. 

Where Does Fluoride Come From?

The primary source of fluoride intake include drinking water in areas where water fluoridation occurs. The decision to include fluoride in water systems are made at either the state or local level. Ingestion of fluoride through the use and swallowing of toothpaste is common in young children. Beverages and food processed with fluorinated water, dietary supplements and prescriptions, and professional dental products are also ways to ingest this mineral. 

Why is Fluoride Added to Water and Toothpaste?

The use of fluoride in the mouth (in saliva and dental plaque) is an effective way to prevent tooth decay. This is beneficial in both children and adults throughout their entire lives. The health benefits of fluoride are fewer and less severe cavities, less need for fillings and tooth extractions, and less pain and suffering associated with tooth decay. 

How Does Fluoride Work to Prevent Tooth Decay?

This mineral works to prevent tooth decay by keeping the enamel strong, solid, and helps remineralize tooth surfaces and prevents cavities from forming. When a person consumes sugar or other refined carbohydrates, these bacteria produce acid that removes minerals from the surface of the tooth. Fluoride is a preventative method in minimizing health risks concerning the mouth. 

History of Fluoride Use Around the World

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research states, that almost 30 years after the conclusion of the Grand Rapids fluoridation continues to be dental science's main weapon in the battle against tooth decay. Today, just about every toothpaste on the market contains fluoride as its active ingredient, water fluoridation projects currently benefit over 200 million Americans, and 13 million schoolchildren now participate in school-based fluoride mouth rinse programs. 

History of Fluoride Use in Ohio

The Ohio Department of Health discusses that the state leaders recognized the benefits of fluoride back in 1969 and passed a fluoridation law requiring community water systems that serve over 5,000 persons to fluoridate, In Ohio, 92 percent of Ohioans use water systems treated with fluoride. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recognizes fluoridation as one of the ten single greatest achievements in public health of the 20th century. 

How Does Fluoride Affect the Brain?

The Fluoride Action Network states, that fluoride’s ability to damage the brain is one of the most active areas of fluoride research today. Over 300 studies have found that fluoride is a neurotoxin (a chemical that can damage the brain). This research includes:

Over 100 animal studies showing that prolonged exposure to varying levels of fluoride can damage the brain, particularly when coupled with an iodine deficiency, or aluminum excess;

50 human studies linking moderately high fluoride exposures with reduced intelligence;

45 animal studies reporting that mice or rats ingesting fluoride have an impaired capacity to learn and/or remember;

12 studies (7 human, 5 animal) linking fluoride with neurobehavioral deficits (e.g., impaired visual-spatial organization);

3 human studies linking fluoride exposure with impaired fetal brain development.

How Does Fluoride Affect the Body?

According to Mercola, studies have shown that fluoride toxicity can lead to a variety of health problems including: increased lead absorption, disruption in the synthesis of collagen, hyperactivity and/or lethargy, muscle disorders, thyroid disease, arthritis, dementia, bone fractures, lowered thyroid function, bone cancer (osteosarcoma), inactivates 62 enzymes and inhibits more than 100, inhibited formation of antibodies genetic damage and cell death, increased tumor and cancer rate, disrupted immune system, and damaged sperm and increased fertility.