Fluoridation
Fluoridation is the adding of fluorine compounds (fluorides) to various substances, especially toothpaste and drinking water. Government officials, scientists, and doctors say that Fluoridation helps prevent tooth decay and cavities, but it also has harmful effects in larger doses, creating a controversy over whether water should be fluoridated.
Fluoridation Media
Fluoridation does not affect the appearance, taste or smell of drinking water.
Geographical areas associated with groundwater having over 1.5 mg/L of naturally occurring fluoride, which is above recommended levels.
Detail of southern Arizona. Areas in darker blues have groundwater with over 2 mg/L of naturally occurring fluoride.
A mild case of dental fluorosis, visible as white streaks on the subject's upper right central incisor.
Demineralization and remineralization of dental enamel in the presence of acid and fluoride in saliva and plaque fluid.
Fluoride toothpaste is effective against cavities. It is widely used, but less so among the poor.
Fluoridated iodized salt sold in Germany
Percentage of population receiving fluoridated water, including both artificial and natural fluoridation, as of 2012.* 80–100%* 60–80%* 40–60%* 20–40%* 1–20%* < 1%* unknown
