Fluoridated Water Makes for Happy Dentist



Everyday I hear a patient or two tell me, “You know, it’s nothing personal, but I don’t like coming here.” Invariably, when I talk to the patient further I find that their feelings date back to their first memories of going to the dentist. They remember needing fillings every time they visited. Today, in my practice, it is not at all unusual for a patient to go through childhood, adolescence, and into adulthood without ever having a tooth restored. This is obviously a great change for the better, but why has it occurred? The biggest reason is the fluoridation of community water supplies. There are now over fifty years of practical results indicating the benefits of fluoridated water. It is credited with decreasing the incidence of tooth decay by up to 40%! So now when kids come in to my office, have a perfect checkup, think it’s great fun and that I am a really swell guy, I have to tip my hat to.....Fluoridated Water!

Most people are familiar with the concept of fluoridated water, but many are surprised to learn that fluoride actually occurs naturally in all ground and surface water in the United States. The key is the concentration. Fluoride is most beneficial in concentrations between 0.7 and 1.2 parts per million (ppm). Community fluoridation initiatives are aimed at bringing fluoride deficient water up to these levels. At optimal levels, the calcium and phosphate groups in fluoride have the profound ability to strengthen tooth enamel, thereby increasing resistance to dental decay. Ultimately, this means happier patients and a better public perception of yours truly.

As is the case with anything worthwhile, there are opponents to the fluoridation of community water supplies, usually on the grounds of perceived health risks. We now have over fifty years of research and practical experience with fluoridated water, and there is no evidence of any detrimental health effects. No charges leveled by fluoride opponents have ever been substantiated by generally accepted science. For this reason, opposing water fluoridation has no factual basis and is in actuality a disservice to all involved.

In my office, our patients benefit from Lincoln’s fluoridated water. However, with the rising popularity of bottled water, I do advise parents to have their children drink tap water. Additionally, we will occasionally supplement fluoride for children (or adults) who live outside Lincoln and do not have fluoridated water. In either case, the benefits of dietary fluoride are indisputable.

Please do not hesitate to contact the office if you have any further questions about water fluoridation. We can be reached at (402) 466-1914.