Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water, soil, and rocks. For decades, it has been added to public drinking water to help prevent tooth decay. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) even calls water fluoridation one of the greatest public health achievements of the 20th century.
In the 1930s, researchers found that people in areas with naturally fluoridated water had fewer cavities. This finding led to the practice of adding small, controlled amounts of fluoride to community water supplies. The right amount helps strengthen tooth enamel without causing harm.
Although some have raised concerns about possible side effects, numerous studies show that the fluoride levels used in drinking water are safe.
Water fluoridation particularly benefits people who may not have regular access to dental care, helping reduce health disparities. In communities that stopped fluoridating their water, tooth decay rates rose, demonstrating the importance of fluoride in protecting oral health.
Abi Raymaker For The Junior Times junior/1744681001/1678407625
1. Why has fluoride been added to public drinking water?
2. Which organization calls water fluoridation a major public health achievement?
3. Who especially benefits from water fluoridation?
4. What happened in communities that stopped adding fluoride to water?
1. How might water fluoridation affect people who can't afford regular dental care?
2. What would happen if all cities stopped adding fluoride to water?
3. Should people have the choice to opt out of fluoridated water?
4. Why do you think some people are concerned about fluoride in water?
Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water, soil, and rocks. For decades, it has been added to public drinking water to help prevent tooth decay. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) even calls water fluoridation one of the greatest public health achievements of the 20th century.
