Developed nations have treated public drinking water with fluoride since as early as the 1930s. This practice was based on the idea that adding hydrofluosilicic acid, a water-soluble form of fluoride, to drinking water may strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. However, recent studies now indicate that consumers may be getting too much of a good thing. The Center for Disease Control has released alarming reports indicating a rise in fluorosis, a detrimental side effect of fluoride consumption. This has led to a number of health professionals issuing warnings to Americans to be mindful of fluoride ingestion, as fluoride is now readily available in a number of consumable products. In South Florida, Miami dentists are particularly adamant about warning patients to consider the fluoride content of everything from toothpastes to Teflon pans.
Holistic health care professionals have long warned individuals to be mindful of the chemicals that surround us on a daily basis. These professionals contend that limiting exposure to unhealthy chemicals and environmental stressors is instrumental in achieving holistic health. These professionals, particularly holistic dental practitioners, have recently focused on the expansive availability of fluoride. Water fluoridation has made this mineral increasingly available through public drinking water, and more importantly, any consumable item produced with public water.
The most common side effect of fluoride overexposure is fluorosis, a condition whereby the tooth enamel becomes overly hardened and discolored. The Wall Street Journal reported in spring 2011 that the rate of fluorosis among American children has doubled since 1986. This evidence suggests that an increase in fluoridated consumable products is the culprit, as fluoride levels in public drinking water have remained relatively unchanged over that time period. This has given rise to a number of organizations committed to spreading awareness of fluoride toxicity and availability, most notably the Fluoride Action Network.
The Fluoride Action Network (FAN) is a not-for-profit organization aimed at increasing public awareness for the readily available and potentially toxic nature of fluoride. The group has many common sources of fluoride listed on their website, Fluoridealert.org, including tap water, wine, beer, processed cereals, and mechanically deboned chicken, a customer favorite at most fast food chains. Over 3,000 professionals of various industries have signed a statement with FAN, calling for a reduction in fluoridation practices.
So, is fluoride necessary in preventing tooth decay? Holistic dental professionals contend that it is not, offering patients a number of natural alternatives that may be more effective in preventing tooth decay. First, holistic professionals urge patients to get back to the basics with regular brushing and flossing. Removing food particles from the teeth and gum tissue is the number one way to prevent the accumulation of plaque and bacteria that invariably leads to decay.
Next, holistic dental professionals recommend that patients make informed lifestyle decisions that have a positive effect on oral health. Most important of these decisions is choosing to eat foods that promote oral health. This includes avoiding sugars and starches, as both may stick to the tooth enamel and vigorously produce plaque and bacteria. Patients may also consider visiting a holistic professional to better understand the unique acidity of their own mouth. This varies by person, and those with a particularly acidic mouth may eat specific foods with pH levels that help to prevent enamel breakdown and decay.
This has been an informational article produced and distributed on behalf of Assure a Smile, a holistic dentist practice located in Miami, Florida.