Fluoride in Brisbane’s drinking water, Good or Bad?
The addition of fluoride to drinking water has been a subject of debate and controversy for many years. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that can help prevent tooth decay and strengthen dental enamel when used in appropriate amounts.
The general consensus among health organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Dental Association (ADA), is that fluoride in drinking water at optimal levels is beneficial for oral health and safe for human consumption.
‘Optimal levels’ being the key word.
Here are some key points to consider:
Benefits:
Dental health: Fluoride in water helps to prevent tooth decay, particularly in children. It can reduce cavities by up to 25% in children and adults, leading to improved oral health.
Cost-effective: Community water fluoridation is considered a cost-effective way to improve oral health, as it reaches a large population and requires minimal effort on an individual’s part.
Safety:
Regulation: Fluoride levels in drinking water are regulated by health authorities in most countries to ensure they remain within safe limits. These limits are established based on scientific research and take into account potential health risks.
Optimal levels: The recommended fluoride concentration in water is typically around 0.7 to 1.2 milligrams per liter (mg/L) in temperate climates, depending on factors like climate and water consumption patterns. This level is considered safe and effective in preventing tooth decay while minimizing the risk of fluorosis.
Concerns:
Dental fluorosis: Dental fluorosis is the main concern associated with fluoride consumption, which can occur at high levels of exposure during tooth development in childhood.
Skeletal fluorosis: Skeletal fluorosis, a condition caused by long-term excessive fluoride intake, is rare in areas with regulated fluoride levels in drinking water.
Individual sensitivities: Some individuals may be more susceptible to the effects of fluoride, and in rare cases, they may experience allergic reactions or other adverse effects.
If your concerned about fluoride, we can install a reverse osmosis water filter under your kitchen sink to remove it from your drinking water, along with all other mains water additives such as chlorine and chloramine.