Fluoride has become a hot topic recently, and you may be considering how water fluoride affects dental health.
This is not a new topic, in fact the pros and cons of adding fluoride to drinking water is highly debated, with arguments centered on the safety of ingesting fluoride, rather than it being applied to the teeth directly, versus the benefits. Here, we’ll explore how water fluoride affects dental health, the possible effects of removing fluoride from drinking water and whether this will increase the need for regular dental care.
What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral added to drinking water to prevent dental cavities by strengthening tooth enamel. Despite being a common practice in the U.S. for decades, fluoride’s role in public health is contentious, with some linking it to various health risks at high levels.
The Debate Over Fluoride Safety
Recent discussions, influenced by high-profile figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., suggest that fluoride might be removed from public water supplies due to concerns over its association with health issues such as bone cancer, thyroid disease, and neurodevelopmental disorders. However, experts affirm that at optimal levels (0.7 mg/L), fluoride poses no confirmed health risks and is effective in preventing dental decay.
Impact of Removing Fluoride
Removing fluoride could increase the potential for dental cavities, especially among populations with high carbohydrate consumption who are more prone to dental issues. This could disproportionately affect low-income families who may not afford regular dental care.
Role of Dental Membership Plans
Without the protective benefits of fluoride, people may be at a higher risk for dental cavities and other oral health issues. In such a scenario, regular visits to the dentist and strong adherence to the ADA’s standard of care, of visiting twice a year for hygiene, including fluoride treatment, may become more important. Dental membership plans could emerge as an important way to help patients pay for regular hygiene visits in a transparent and affordable way. These plans can even be an appealing alternative to dental insurance. By subscribing to a membership plan, individuals and families can visit the dentist for regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and fluoride treatment at a discount. This may help mitigate the increased potential for cavities that might arise due to the absence of fluoride in the drinking water but also promotes overall oral health maintenance and prevention strategies. Consequently, dental membership plans not only provide financial relief but also ensure continuous dental care, which is essential in preventing the escalation of oral health issues.
Key Take Away For Dental Practitioners
The debate over water fluoridation highlights the need for comprehensive dental care solutions, like dental membership plans. As communities seriously consider removing fluoride, dental practices should advocate for membership plans to ensure continued dental health, especially among vulnerable populations.
Sources
This blog draws on information from Health.com, Reuters, Forbes, and the American Cancer Society to provide a well-rounded view of the fluoride debate and its implications for dental health.
