For decades, fluoride has been at the heart of public health discussions, greeting experts as a critical tool for preventing teeth decomposition, while at the same time facing controls by skeptics who question his safety.
But what does science say?
Fluoride is a natural metal mineral that enhances tooth enamel, the outer layer of teeth, making it more resistant to bacteria that produce cavity -causing cavity.
There are two other inner layers of teeth – the dentin, which is sensitive to temperature, and the inner layer, known as a pulp or heart of the tooth.
The teeth “are basically, like an M & M – a hard outer layer with a soft interior,” said Dr. Manuel Acosta, a six -year dentist.
“Fluoride helps in the memory of the outer layer by replacing the broken minerals with fluoropatite, which is more resistant to acid breaking of the teeth,” Dr. Acosta told NBCuniversal Local. “This is the main advantage of fluoride – prevents cavities and, in turn, reduces the need for treatments such as fills and crown.”
Fluoride in water and toothpaste: Is it enough?
Fluoride is usually added to drinking water in many US cities, a public health measure approved by Disease Control and Prevention Centersthe American dental union and the World Health Organization.
Studies show that Community water fluoridation can Reduce teeth wear by about 25% to children and adults.
Some wonder if the fluorid toothpaste is only sufficient. According to Dr. Acosta, the answer depends on a person’s oral hygiene and nutrition.
“People who brush religiously after each meal and avoid carbohydrates can easily pass with just fluorid toothpaste,” said Dr. Acosta. “But for populations with limited access to dental education and care, fluoridated water is one of the few effective, mass treatments available to prevent tooth decay.”
Despite its proven benefits, some legislators and activists continue to push for fluoride bans in public water. In Utah, for example, legislation has been introduced that will Prohibition of Community Water Fluoringreporting concerns about personal selection and potential risks to health.
Public Health officials warn that such measures could increase cavities and inequalities in the field of dental health, especially in marginalized communities.
And, they say, banning Community fluoridation hurts people’s health and finances.
“As we have recently seen in other communities, interruption of fluoridation leads to more cavities and higher costs for dental care,” Dr. Scott Tomar, Associate of the University of Illinois Chicago. “On average, every dollar invested in fluoridation saves about $ 20 on treatment costs. If Utah takes this action, it will not save money, but will set the highest cost of treatment on the backs of Utah citizens.”
Can you get too fluoride?
While fluoride is beneficial in the right amounts, excessive exposure can lead to situations such as fluoridation, which causes white patches in the teeth and, in rare cases, skeletal fluorization, which affects bones and joints, Dr. Acosta said.
Children under the age of two, who are more prone to swallowing toothpaste, are often advised to use fluoride options until they learn to spit toothpaste.
Despite concerns, the most important health organizations argue that fluoride levels in public water are safe. The CDC sets the optimum fluoride concentration of 0.7 milligrams per liter to balance the prevention of the cavity by minimizing the risk of fluorization.
Myths and misinformation
Over the years, fluoride has been the subject of conspiracy theories, with claims ranging from government control tactics to serious health risks. In addition, there are moral concerns related to the perception of mass medication, despite the fact that fluoride is natural.
However extensive survey by institutions such as National Institutes of Health And the CDC has firmly confirmed the safety and effectiveness of fluoride when used within the recommended limits.
The discussion of fluoride will probably remain, but the scientific consensus remains clear: fluoride, either in toothpaste or in drinking water, plays a key role in preventing cavities and promoting oral health. Community fluoridation at recommended levels is safe. The least fluoride will probably create more cavities, tooth decay and deterioration of oral health – which can lead to more overall health problems such as a Increased risk of heart disease.
CDC considers fluoridation of community drinking water as one of the “Ten major public health achievements“In the US in the 20th century.
