February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. The American Dental Association (ADA) has declared water fluoridation the theme for 2020’s campaign, celebrating the 75th anniversary of Grand Rapids, Michigan becoming the first city to fluoridate its water as a measure to battle tooth decay. Today we’ll look at some of the benefits of water fluoridation for kids and adults.
Reduced Rates of Tooth Decay
Many studies on fluoridated water have shown impressive rates of effectiveness in combating tooth decay for children as well as adults. The ADA has declared that fluoridated water reduces the rates of tooth decay by as much as 25%, though studies on certain populations have risen above even this impressive total. Decreased rates of tooth decay have a direct impact on communal well being including financial savings, as less tooth decay means fewer fillings.
Dental Care Savings for All
75 years ago when municipalities began adding fluoride to their water supplies, adequate dental care was heavily weighted towards upper class individuals and their families. With the advent of fluoridated public water, the wide gap in oral health between higher and lower income families began to close. Today, anyone with access to a tap can reap the widely demonstrated benefits of fluoridated water.
It’s Safe, Effective, and Natural
Though some conspiratorial voices have cast doubt onto the safety of ingesting fluoride, fluoride is naturally present in our oceans and groundwater. The practice of adjusting fluoride levels for oral health has been endorsed by numerous groups including the U.S. Surgeons General, the American Medical Association, and the World Health Organization. In fact, the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention named water fluoridation one of the top 10 greatest public health achievements of the 20th century.
Bottled water companies are not required to disclose fluoride content, and may grossly undercut the amount found in tap water. It’s still suggested that you filter water from the tap before drinking it. If you’re seeking a general or cosmetic dentist in Lincoln Square, call our office to set up an appointment today!
