Water fluoridation began in 1945 to decrease the amount of tooth enamel decay. We have always been told that fluoride is good for us, but did you know that fluoride ingestion has been linked to neurological disorders and IQ deficiencies in children? Fluoride is added to our drinking water, but yet people pay extra for fluoride-free toothpast! Ever thought about why????
Water fluoridation can cause dental fluorosis, which can alter the appearance of developing teeth, most of this is mild and usually not considered to be of aesthetic or public-health concern but does account for those white streaks in people's teeth. A common occurance if you look close. The critical period of exposure is between ages one and four years, with the risk ending around age eight. Fluorosis can be prevented by monitoring all sources of fluoride, with fluoridated water directly or indirectly responsible for an estimated 40% of risk and other sources, notably toothpaste, responsible for the remaining 60%. Bottled water can even contain fluroide levels, but it's often in unknown amounts. Some domestic water filters remove some of the added fluoride.
Fluoride can occur naturally in water in concentrations well above recommended levels, which can have several long-term adverse effects, including severe dental fluorosis, skeletal fluorosis, and weakened bones. The World Health Organization recommends a guideline maximum fluoride value of 1.5 mg/L as a level at which fluorosis should be minimal but many other health organizations question this.
Have you ever read the toothpast tube? It says "Keep out of reach of children under the age of 6". Studies have shown that the benefits of fluoride are achieved only with topical application — not from ingestion. And yet most municipalities add fluoride to the tap water. Add this to the fluoride that’s in your toothpaste, and you could be setting your self up for fluoride side effects such as brain damage and reproductive issues. Some other brands that are fluoride-free that might be a healthier alternative are: Tom's of Maine, Burt's Bees Kids "Berry Bee" fluoride-free toothpast, and Jason's Natural Toothpaste. They can all easily be found in Publix, Wal- Mart, etc. I personally use and like Tom's.
This is just something to think about and especially consider when you're purchasing toothpast for your kids.
