Many opponents of fluoridation in the public water system have long shouted that it increases the likelihood of infection and threatens our immune system. The government has long supported adding fluoride to city drinking water to protect children's teeth against caries and breakdown.
Most public water systems that have fluoride added only contain about 25% of the recommended maximum level established as safe by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
However, there are several populations spread around the US who are at risk for fluoride poisoning due to naturally occurring fluoride in the drinking water. These individuals may consume 1-2 times the maximum amount considered safe by the EPA.
Children in these areas will suffer from flourosis, a discoloration of the enamel coating the teeth. This condition is largely labeled as cosmetic by the government, but may seriously threaten dental and bone health in the face.
As well the latest report from the National Academy of Sciences reported that these children could be at risk for fractures and broken bones later in life. Increased consumption of fluoride can cause a leaching of minerals from the bones, such as calcium and phosphorus. Both calcium and phosphorus make up the majority of the bony matrix in our large bones. This matrix naturally declines with age, and increased fluoride in the drinking water can speed up this process.
Opponents of fluoridated water are singing praise with this latest report. As it stands it may be better to provide protection to your children's teeth by using fluoride toothpaste and leave the drinking water alone.
Posted by Kristopher Foster on April 11, 2006 10:00 AM
