Fluoride Facts and Myths

Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water and foods. This mineral has several benefits for your health. It is most widely known for strengthening the tooth enamel and protecting the teeth from tooth decay. The mineral is added to dental products like toothpaste and mouthwashes.

With the popularity of the internet as a means of spreading information, we find both negative and positive facts about fluoride. Although some are just myths, people must know what are facts and what are myths.

Myth: People who drink fluoridated water can develop fluorosis. 

Fact: Fluorosis is a cosmetic condition that affects the teeth when a person takes a high amount of fluoride. The amount of fluoride that is added to the water in the United States is very low and there is no chance for fluorosis development. Some rare cases of mild fluorosis have been found, however. 

Myth: Fluoridating water is expensive.

Fact: Fluoridating water is the cheapest way to prevent tooth decay. 

Myth: It is dangerous for children to drink fluoridated water. 

Fact: Drinking fluoridated water is not dangerous for children. In fact, it helps to strengthen their teeth and prevent tooth decay and tooth loss as they grow.

Myth: Drinking fluoridated water causes cancer.

Fact: Numerous studies and research have concluded that the use of fluoride does not cause cancer or any other serious health problems like heart problems, diabetes, or kidney problems. It is approved as safe by the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Institute of Medicine. 

Myth: Fluoride is a medication that is forced on people. 

Fact: The U.S. court has ruled out fluoride as medication and approved that it is a nutrient. 

Myth: It is not necessary to fluoridate water since toothpaste contains fluoride.

Fact: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the level of fluoride in toothpaste is not enough to stop tooth decay. Fluoride in water and toothpaste together gives the maximum protection needed to prevent tooth decay and tooth loss.

Myth: Europe does not allow fluoridated water, so the US should also stop fluoridating water.

Fact: European countries do fluoridate their water. In Europe and Latin America, salt fluoridation is the commonly used method. 

Myth: Fluoride is an unnatural element.

Fact: Fluoride in certain levels can be found in water and other sources naturally.

Visit Mission Creek Family Dentistry at 9460 Cuyamaca St #101, Santee, CA 92071. Contact us at (619) 596-1128 or schedule an appointment online.