Fluoride
1. Why do some people disapprove of adding fluoride to drinking water?
Many people oppose the idea of having fluoride in drinking water. Some of the reasons for this are because approximately half of the United States’ drinking water supply is fluoridated in an attempt to reduce dental cavities in children. Many chemicals used in fluoridation have not been tested for safety. Small quantities found in toothpaste are not that damaging to the body but if you are constantly consuming fluoride, this could lead to some serious health issues. Fluoride can inhibit enzymes, damage the immune systemm, contribute to calcification of soft tissues, worsen arthritis, brain damage, cause dental fluorosis in children and may be a risk for kidney patients. Also, fluoride can lead to even more serious heath issues. These issues are cancer, bone fracture, adverse thyroid function and adverse neurological effects. Overall, I believe that fluoride can be helpful, but overusing it could make a serious impact on your body.
2. What would your position be on adding fluoride to drinking water and why?
I think that I would disagree with adding fluoride to drinking water. I do not think that it is necessary because people should already receive enough from toothpaste. Fluoride is not needed in water because the only reason it’s in it is to help protect people from tooth problems and bacteria. Toothpaste can be used to prevent tooth issues without having to double up on the fluoride.
3. What technological advances in toothpaste had to be made before fluoride could be widely used in toothpaste and mouthwashes?
Toothpaste contains fluoride because there are also many ways in which fluoride can help your body. First, toothpaste fights against tooth decay. Fluoride can do this in two different ways which include strengthening the tooth enamel, and by allowing damaged teeth from acid to repair themselves. Basically, the fluoride used in toothpaste is used for keeping healthy and strong teeth. Recently, too much fluoride has been added to some toothpastes which is a risk for some people. Many organizations, including the FDA, helped reduce the amount of fluoride in toothpastes. The FDA also requires all brands of toothpastes to have a warning statement on the packaging.
4. What side effects of using fluoride in drinking water are of most concern to you? Why?
To me, all of the side effects of using fluoride in drinking water are a concern. This is because I think that after a while they would start to build up on one another. Also after consuming more fluoride over time, the side effects could lead to others, and could become potentionally dangerous.
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