Fluoride is a mineral that exists naturally in water and soil. About 70 years ago, scientists discovered that people who lived where water supplies naturally had more fluoride also fewer cavities. Today, most public drinking water supples are fluoridated, especially in larger cities, and dental professionals applaud its usage.
But can there be too much of a good thing?
A recent government study found that two in five adolescents had some sort of streaking or spotting in their teeth because of too much fluoride, a number that has grown considerably since the 1980s.
For most people these streaks or spots are totally harmless and barely visible to the naked eye, although in severe cases the tooth enamel can actually develop a pit-like surface. So even though fluoride still does a fantastic job in cavity prevention, as with most things in medicine, there are side effects.
The good news is- as a result of this study the federal government has acted very rapidly to change their recommendation for the amount of fluoride in drinking water, making it 0.7 milligrams per liter of water, down from the 50 year standard of the up to 1.2 milligrams.
So keep brushing, flossing, rinsing and drinking fluoridated water. It's also important to continue to see us for you regular dental visits. We will be glad to check your teeth to see if we can find any negative effects from fluoride and look for cavities too! As with any dental condition, the sooner we find it, the easier and less costly it is to teat. If you have questions or would like to make and appointment, please call us any time at 615-269-4209!
Devine Dentistry!
