When we think of achieving healthier oral health, water is probably the last thing that comes to mind. One usually would picture a dentist’s visit or a good toothpaste. But guess what? Tap water can go a long way too in fighting tooth decay. Surprising, right? Recently, water fluoridation has silently contributed to good oral health, and most people don’t even know about it.

Fluoride in Action

Fluoride is a mineral, naturally found in rocks, soil and other water sources. Water fluoridation is the process of adding fluoride to public water supply. By doing so, it reaches the optimal level needed to prevent tooth decay. Why fluoride? Because researchers found that Fluoride has the potential to fight cavities and promote healthier oral hygiene. 

It is like a one-man army. This single mineral does it all to be your teeth’s personal bodyguard. It strengthens the hard outer layer or teeth-enamel, preventing it from acid attacks for germs and other bacteria. It also helps in remineralisation – when acids manage to attack the enamel, fluoride repairs it. Apart from that, it is also potent in preventing the growth of certain decay-causing bacteria.

Because of these properties, it is now an essential component in many toothpastes.

Benefits of Water Fluoridation

Because of fluoride’s ability to prevent tooth decay, water fluoridation has many benefits.

1. No one likes to go to the dentist. Water fluoridation reduces that by reducing the chances of cavities in children and adults by about 25%. Studies show that communities consuming fluoridated water experience lesser tooth decay.
2. It is affordable and a smart move. For every few extra bucks paid for this process, one also saves much more on dentist visits. When teeth and gums are healthy, there is no need to see a dentist in the first place.
3. It is safe and needed for all. There is no rule that says that cavities can happen only amongst children. Adults are equally likely to develop dental problems either due to bad habits or because of lack of proper care. Water fluoridation prevents tooth decay and tooth loss, offering better oral health than was originally known.

So, an appropriate amount of water fluoridation can save you a doctor’s visit, apart from the unbearable tooth ache. Instead, it helps maintain the oral health and bring happy, healthy smiles.

Safety Concerns around Water Fluoridation

Excess of anything is bad, and it is true in this case as well. While water fluoridation has many benefits mentioned above, it has faced criticism as well. Some say it is unsafe and not required. These criticisms are based on many claims like:

1. Excessive exposure to fluoride, especially amongst children, can lead to dental fluorosis. 
2. Excess of fluoride can also badly affect bones and joints, often referred to as skeletal fluorosis. Though, this is a very rare possibility, especially if water is properly fluoridated to recommended levels.
3. Some critics also relate fluoride to increased cancer risk. But, studies, especially by the National Cancer Institute, say otherwise.

The Bottom Line

Water fluoridation is like the unsung hero. Many don’t even know about it  but it transforms lives just by existing in drinking water. Though many critics debate its safety, the evidence states that it is not harmful in the right proportions. In fact, it says it is beneficial in maintaining good oral health.

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