Fluoride is said to protect the teeth in two ways:
– Protection from demineralization – when bacteria in the mouth combine with sugars they produce acid. This acid can erode tooth enamel and damage our teeth. Fluoride can protect teeth from demineralization that is caused by the acid.
– Remineralization – if there is already some damage to teeth caused by acid, fluoride accumulates in the demineralized areas and begins strengthening the enamel, a process called remineralization.
Fluoride is extremely useful in preventing cavities and making teeth stronger. However, it is much less effective if a cavity has already formed.

Virtually all public health authorities and medical associations worldwide recommend that children and adults receive a minimum (and maximum) level of fluoride. Children need fluoride to protect their permanent teeth as they are being formed. Adults also need fluoride to protect their teeth from decay.
Several people, especially those at higher risk of tooth decay, benefit from fluoride treatment. This includes individuals who have:
– Snacking habits
– Poor dental hygiene
– Diets that are high in sugars/carbohydrates
– Bridges, crowns, braces, and other restoration procedures
– A history of tooth decay (cavities)

However, excess fluoride exposure can lead to health problems. These adverse effects are outlined in detail in this World Health Organisation (WHO) report: http://www.who.int/ipcs/features/fluoride.pdf

Excess fluoride exposure may come from the following sources:
– Abnormally high concentrations of fluoride in natural fresh water
– Untested bottled water Eg: (Non Certified Water Companies)
– Inappropriate use of fluoride supplements
– Some foods

This is a difficult question to answer. Given that people in the Netherlands derive approx. 85% of their daily fluoride from food and not drinking water, the figures are largely debated. However, in the WHO report referenced above, a guideline of 1.5 mg/l is seen an as an acceptable standard. As the last European country to continue the practice of fluoridation, it is my opinion that the practice of ‘mass medicating’ the population should be halted. Instead, the practice of promoting the benefits of fluoride should be promoted (similar to that previously of calcium). I feel that this would benefit the population far more and enable people to see the great benefits of fluoride in moderation.

I have done a lot of research regarding the effects of fluoride and why is in in our water, at the start I was quite sceptic about the whole issue as I would of always thought Fluoride was bad for you. I now believe that in small amounts, Fluoride is actually quite good for you but the same as everything to much of a good thing will also have bad effects. Ireland being the only country in the whole of the EU that still adds Fluoride into the water made this whole topic that bit more interesting. I have found that it is added in to our water for healthier teeth, kills bacteria in the water and also is added into our tooth pastes, mouth wash and nearly all of our foods. I am sure the debate will continue and I hope you found this article helpful.