Economos: In Defense of Fluoride

By James P. Economos, DDS, Opinion Contributor

From time to time, a topic can have a focus on it which like many things societal, can become an “issue de Jour” without necessarily thinking long term or considering the past history of why it was initially established for use.

This is being done with Fluoride.

The states of Florida and Utah have announced they will ban Fluoride use in drinking water. This is misguided in my opinion.

There’s been misinformation about Fluoride, which reduces dental decay with other health benefits. This is why its use was implemented many years ago. To understand the issue better, a small bit of chemistry background is needed.

Fluoride is made from the element Fluorine which is a gas in its natural state. (#9 on the Periodic Chart of the Elements). It’s changed into Sodium Fluoride which is then put into toothpastes, drinking water and other things. At one part per million, it simply adds a chemical shield so to speak from the effects of acidity which leaches calcium from teeth forming dental decay (cavities). Certain bacteria cause dental decay by producing acid which leaches calcium out of teeth resulting in cavities. There’s been no proven harm when used at this dose.

Since fluoridation was initiated in 1945, dental caries in children have decreased by more than 50 percent. The American Dental Association has spent a lot of time and resources rightfully defending its use.

Let’s compare the use of Botox in terms of being harmful to people. As you know, Botox is used to make people look younger as it removes wrinkles from peoples faces as they age. While Botox is a voluntary decision versus Fluoride which is mandated for use, I think it is good to know what’s dangerous and what’s safe for use.

Clostridium botulinum is a very dangerous bacteria which could kill you via paralysis of the nervous system if not treated. Botox is an attenuated form of this deadly bacteria. Just as in the case for Botox, the proper dose for Fluoride is very safe and the sudden paranoia over its use is not warranted.

Fluoride is added to many dental cements and other products as Fluoride release is considered an important stabilizing factor. In bone development, Fluoride helps with calcium retention which makes bones stronger and prevents rickets in infants and children. There are many other industrial and pharmaceutical uses of Fluoride which are beyond the scope of this article.

While I support President Trump and Secretary Robert F. Kennedy’s desires to improve health statistics, the focus on Fluoride should be discontinued as fluoride is beneficial when used at its proper dose.