Fluoride in Our Tap Water: Harnessing Nature’s Ally to Protect Us from Tooth Decay

WORDS PROFESSOR DR SEOW LIANG LIN & PROFESSOR DR MUNEER GOHAR BABAR

FEATURED EXPERT PROFESSOR DR SEOW LIANG LIN Dean School of Dentistry IMU University

FEATURED EXPERT PROFESSOR DR MUNEER GOHAR BABAR Associate Dean for Academic Affairs School of Dentistry IMU University

FLUORIDE IS A CRITICAL COMPONENT IN OUR FIGHT AGAINST TOOTH DECAY

Bacteria in Our Mouth Produces Acids that Weaken Our Teeth

• In our mouth are bacteria that feeds on sugars and starches in food particles stuck on our teeth.
• These bacteria produce acids that can dissolve the mineral content of the enamel, which is the hard outermost layer of a tooth.
• As a result, the tooth is weakened and becomes more vulnerable to cavities or tooth decay.
• This entire process is called demineralization of the tooth enamel.

Fluoride Is Beneficial to Counter Demineralization of the Enamel

• Fluoride enhances the remineralization of tooth enamel.
• Fluoride ions contribute to the formation of acid-resistant minerals that strengthens enamel against demineralization caused by these acids.
• Additionally, fluoride inhibits the demineralization process and reduces the ability of bacteria to produce acid, further contributing to its effectiveness in preventing cavities.

OTHER BENEFITS OF FLUORIDE

Bone Health

• Fluoride contributes to bone mineralization and density by stimulating the growth and proliferation of bone cells.
• It has the potential to reduce the risk of developing weak or brittle bone conditions such as

Reduction of Tooth Sensitivity

Fluoride compounds can alleviate tooth sensitivity, making them beneficial for individuals suffering from this condition.

Easy Accessibility and Cost Effective

• Fluoride is widely available through various dental products and water fluoridation.
• Therefore, it is a cost-effective solution when it comes to improving dental health across different populations.

WATER FLUORIDATION: A SOLUTION TO IMPROVE THE POPULATION’S ACCESS TO THE BENEFITS OF FLUORIDE

Water fluoridation is the controlled addition of fluoride to public water supplies aimed at reducing dental caries.

The implementation of water fluoridation has been recognized globally by organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) as a significant public health achievement that effectively reduces the prevalence of dental decay across various demographics.

In Malaysia, this practice was established as a national policy in 1972 to enhance oral health among the population.

THE BENEFITS OF WATER FLUORIDATION

Research has consistently demonstrated the benefits of water fluoridation.

Reduction in Dental Caries

Studies indicate that fluoridated water significantly reduces the incidence of dental caries. For instance, community water fluoridation has been shown to decrease caries risk by approximately 35% in children.

Long-Term Oral Health Benefits

Studies in Australia have shown that adults with lifetime exposure to fluoridated water have significantly fewer decayed, missing, and filled teeth and surfaces, compared to those with less exposure.

TOXICITY CONCERNS

Excessive fluoride intake can lead to dental fluorosis, particularly in children during tooth development.

However, the fluoride concentrations in dental products are generally considered safe and will not put one at risk of excessive fluoride intake. Furthermore, the optimal levels of fluoride in our public water supplies, such as our tap water, are adjusted over the years to ensure both efficacy and safety.

FLUORIDE REDUCES IQ IN CHILDREN?

While some studies have suggested a potential link between high fluoride exposure and reduced IQ in children, the evidence is inconsistent and often confounded by other factors.

Studies in Europe suggested that the current fluoride exposure levels in that region are not likely to pose a developmental neurotoxic risk.

References:

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