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The value of fluoride-containing toothpaste to dental health is clear: fluoride is a potent chemical that kills microbes on the teeth and strengthens teeth's resistance against cavities.

On the other hand, a substantial and growing body of peer-reviewed science strongly suggests that ingesting fluoride in tap water does not provide the same dental benefits as applying it directly to the teeth, and may present serious health risks.

Furthermore, children who drink fluoridated water are at increased risk of developing fluorosis, a defect of the permanent teeth resulting in staining and, in severe cases, substantial corrosion of the enamel. According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 30 percent of children who drink fluoridated water have some degree of fluorosis. The National Academy of Sciences has also raised concerns about fluoride exposure and bone fractures in the elderly, skeletal fluorosis, thyroid hormone disruption, and neurotoxicity (including effects on IQ). In addition, there is evidence that fluoridated water is linked to osteosarcoma, an often fatal form of bone cancer, in boys.

To conclude, fluoride exposure should be limited to toothpaste, where it provides the greatest dental benefit and presents the lowest overall health risk.

Source: http://www.ewg.org/EWGFAQ#

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Related Questions

What is added to water to promote healthy teeth?

Fluoride.


Do you need flouride in your toothpaste?

I would argue yes. Fluoride helps strengthen your teeth and enamel, which is essential to good dental health. Fluoride basically prolongs the age of teeth for a human, by keeping them healthy and clean.


How does fluoride help teeth?

Fluoride helps the enamel on your teeth become harder. This helps your teeth to resist decay and cavities. Many countries add fluoride to their water supplies to make sure everyone gets enough! You can also buy fluoride mouthwash to make sure your teeth are good and healthy.


How many forms of fluoride are there?

Well, I don't have a number for you. I can tell you that in Dentistry we use 3 main types of fluoride for therapeutic use. NaF also known as sodium fluoride APF also know is acidulated phosphate fluoride SnF also known as stannous fluoride Fluoride may occur in many other forms that I am not aware of, but these are the forms that are used to produce clinical results. I couldn't tell you how many forms of fluoride there, but if you are concerned that you need fluoride for your teeth, don't worry, If you get your teeth cleaned the recommended twice a year, the dentist should do a fluoride treatment. That is plenty. Also, If you live in the city, you are getting additional fluoride because most cities add a small amaount of fluoride to their drinking water resurves for this purpose, not to mention it helps keep the water you are drinking healthy. i thought there was like 600 and even more


How effective is Act fluoride mouth rinse in preventing cavities and promoting oral health?

Studies have shown that Act fluoride mouth rinse is effective in preventing cavities and promoting oral health. The fluoride in the rinse helps strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the risk of decay. Regular use of Act fluoride mouth rinse as part of a good oral hygiene routine can help maintain healthy teeth and gums.


How many fluoride ions are in 1.46 moles of aluminum fluoride?

There would be 4.38 moles of fluoride ions in 1.46 moles of aluminum fluoride, as the formula for aluminum fluoride is AlF3 with three fluoride ions per molecule of aluminum fluoride.


Is a fluoride treatment necessary for children?

Yes, I think it is necessisary because it will help develop healthy oral habits and prevent later problems.


Can you put fluoride water in a fresh water fish tank with fish?

You could.... but I wouldn't recommended because it's not 100% healthy for the fish.


What is prophylactic fluoride administration?

Prophylactic fluoride administration involves the use of fluoride supplements to help prevent dental cavities and promote healthy tooth development. It is typically recommended for individuals who are at a high risk of developing cavities or who do not have access to fluoridated water. This method helps to strengthen tooth enamel and make it more resistant to acid attacks.


Is fluoride an oxidation of fluoride?

No, The fluoride ion is a reduced form of fluorine.


What is another name for fluoride?

Fluoride is in many products available to the public. Fluoride is also known as Acidulated Phosphate Fluoride, Stannous Fluoride, Hydrogen Fluoride, Calcarea Fluorica, and Atomic Number 9.


What two compounds are in sodium fluoride?

Sodium fluoride is the only compound in sodium fluoride.