Saturday, October 24, 2009

"Fluoride prevents decay, says dental body" - The Straits Time, Saturday 24 October 2009

According to the article, the addition of fluoride in water is to reduce the number of dental caries or decay, which is the most prevalent childhood disease and the most common non-communicable disease. There are misconceptions of fluorine, that it is harmful to health, however, the side effects of consuming fluorine is either nothing or mild, that is if the fluorine concentration level is below the optimal amount.
Though there are other methods of reducing number of dental caries or decay, for example changing dietary habits, having preventive fillings and applying fluoride, water fluoridation is a more effective, safe and cost-effective method.

Out of curiosity, i went to dig up some information about water fluoridation on the internet:

A 1994 World Health Organization expert committee suggested a level of fluoride from 0.5 to 1.0 mg/L (milligrams per liter), depending on climate. For warmer climates, the optimal level of fluorine is much lower than that of cooler climates, as people drink more water.

Fluorine can also be found in natural waters such as lakes and rivers, but mostly under the concentration of 0.5mg/L.

If overdosed with fluorine, one may suffer from dental fluorisis.
Critical period of exposure is between age 1-4. Dental fluorisis cracking or splitting of teeth, or just white streaks or spots. (mild!)

"Independent research studies have shown that fluoride has been directly linked to: kidney and bladder disorders; bone malformation; arthritis; skin disease; calcified deposits in the aorta; interference with thyroid function, causing hypothyroidism; and weakening of the immune system; damage to connective-tissue collagen, to ligaments, tendons, bones, arteries and DNA."
-SGforum (linked, but might not be the root cause...)

If the government approve of water fluoridation, there is no need for anyone to be worried about side effects of consuming fluorine!

Labels: water fluoridation

12:27 PM