Fluoride prevents dental decay (caries). This is a fact. I have practiced pediatric dentistry for over 40 years. I was close to the beginning of water fluoridation. Compare the areas around Cortez and Durango. There is a great difference in the rate of decayed, missing and filled teeth in fluoridated and non-fluoridated areas.
Excess fluoride will cause enamel defects. The American Dental Association and the American Association of Pediatric Dentistry have known that there are many sources of fluoride today – and have recommended a lower dose in the water than the original one part per million. Many wells in our area have excess fluoride occurring naturally in the well. So, if you are on well water and have children under 10 please have your well checked for fluoride. Fluoride treatments, if done properly in the dental office are safe, as the child does not swallow any fluoride.
By the way, sugar does not cause cavities – bacteria do!
If a parent or caregiver would brush and floss the child’s teeth at least once a day, childhood decay would be 100 percent preventable – even without fluoride!
Gary M. Vogelsberg, DDS
Durango
