The Wisconsin Dental Association — with nearly 3,000 members or some 83 percent of all licensed dentists in Wisconsin, making it the largest organization representing dentistry in the state — wants to set the record straight on water fluoridation. A “holistic health” magazine recently distributed in your area included an alarming, inaccurate article attacking fluoride.

The U.S. Surgeon General, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other respected organizations recognize community water fluoridation as one of the most significant public health advances of the 20th century and one of the safest, most cost-effective ways to increase overall oral health.
Studies conducted throughout the past 60 years consistently indicate community water fluoridation is safe and effective in preventing tooth decay in both children and adults. In fact, fluoridation has been shown to reduce tooth decay by 19 percent to 40 percent in children and by nearly 35 percent in adults.

Fluoride occurs naturally in combination with other minerals in soil and rocks. Small amounts are also present naturally in almost all water sources. When consumed in appropriate dosages, fluoride is safe and effective in preventing and controlling tooth decay.

True preventive oral health care requires a comprehensive approach and must include professional diagnosis by a dentist, regular dental examinations with X-rays, necessary restorative and periodontal treatment early in the development of dental disease, regular personal oral hygiene practices, observance of healthy lifestyle and dietary habits, consumption or application of appropriate fluoride supplements, appropriate placement of dental sealants and patient education.

Eva Dahl is president of the Wisconsin Dental Association.

 

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