Wiki Page, Community Fluoridation: Module 1 - Fluoridation Introduction Part 2

Wiki Page
2017-06-11T13:25:46-06:00

There is strong evidence that shows the prevalence [or risk] of severe enamel fluorosis is nearly zero when water fluoride concentrations are below 2mg/L. The data suggests that if water systems are kept below 2mg/L, severe enamel fluorosis is eliminated.

This graph shows the population concentrations versus severe enamel fluorosis.

The optimal level of fluoride in the water is 0.7mg/L. To reach this level, we use this equation

Natural Fluoride in Water+ Added Fluoride = 0.7mg/L

This equation is the definition of Fluoridation. This minimum level of fluoride is needed to impact the oral health of the community. Most water sources do not contain enough fluoride naturally but by adding fluoride to bring the water source up to a recommended level, tooth decay can be prevented.

Overall, it is necessary to know the fluoride levels in your water source so that the community is not being over fluoridated.

Currently, there are no federal requirements to fluoridate. States and communities determine whether they will fluoridate their drinking water. The CDC monitors the benefits and risks of fluoridation with in drinking water. Here are a List of Agencies which recommend fluoridation. It is important to note that states and communities must weigh the science behind the risk and benefits when considering to fluoridate.

Now, it's time for a quiz! Click next at the bottom for Module 1 - Quiz 2.