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UK Against Fluoridation

Friday, December 18, 2009

Dentistry IQ - Fluoridation

Fluoridation
Anti-fluoridationist is a term I first heard in 2007 during an online discussion of water fluoridation. In my opinion, it is an ugly label for those concerned about public drinking water. It should also be noted that most of those opposed to water fluoridation are not seeking total elimination of the element. Topical fluoride and its benefits are seldom argued by these individuals. Instead of spending so much time invalidating their beliefs, health-care providers should open our ears and listen to the concern: then present evidence in a non-confrontational manner to support our own stand on the issue. If the patient's concern is based on spiritual or religious teachings, respect it and move on. With CPP-ACP technology readily available, we have other options to present for caries prevention.
Those opposed to water fluoridation do have some solid research to support their position. Coplin, Patch, Masters and Bachman published a study in the September 2007 issue of Neurotoxicology showing that children living in communities with silicofluoride-treated water experience elevated levels of blood lead at a rate nearly double to those living in non-fluoridated communities. Another reference in Clinical Oral Investigations supports the use of topical fluoride stating, “?the caries reduction directly attributable to water fluoridation have declined in the last decades as the use of topical fluoride had become more widespread?” This review was published in the September 2007 journal.
One interesting study was done by Maguire, et al, from the School of Dental Sciences in Newcastle, England. They measured fluoride intake and urinary excretion of fluoride and thus determined retention in children six to seven years old. They tested children living in fluoridated as well as low fluoride areas. The results showed no difference in retention among the groups and concluded that fluoride toothpaste ingestion contributes significantly to total fluoride intake. The author even includes an email address, a.maguire@ncl.ac.uk, leaving the possibility of questioning the study open to everyone.
While there are undeniably more published works pointing to the benefits of water fluoridation than the dangers of such a practice, all studies deserve attention and scrutiny. Just like lead-based paint and asbestos, some health concerns are not investigated or known until long after a practice is in place and accepted.

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