A recent study further confirmed the positive dental benefits of drinking water with fluoride in it, with the results showing that children with access to fluoridation have better dental health than those who don’t.
In a June article published in the Journal of Dental Research, researchers assessed the connection between children’s access to community water fluoridation and the prevalence of cavities. The findings further bolstered the importance of providing access to fluoridated water to children and adolescents.
The study showed a 30 percent reduction in dental caries — the dental term for cavities and tooth decay — in those who had access to fluoridated water compared to those who didn’t.
“Researchers discovered a 30 percent reduction in dental caries experience in the primary dentition in counties where more than 75 percent of the population had access to community water fluoridation when compared to communities where less than 75 percent had access to community water fluoridation. They also noted a 12 percent reduction in dental cares in the permanent dentition,” the American Dental Association said in a statement.
Fluoride has long been used and suggested by dentists, as it helps to develop and strengthen teeth, preventing tooth decay.
The American Association of Dental Research said that the findings are “consistent” with past evidence that has shown the benefits of community water fluoridation.
“The findings are consistent with evidence from the last half-century showing that community water fluoridation continues to provide a substantial dental health benefit for U.S. children and adolescents,” the AADR said in their statement.
Dental professionals remain largely in agreement that fluoridated water is vital to maintaining good dental health, with the AADR saying the fluoridation of America’s drinking water “among the great public health achievements of the twentieth century.”
The Final Word
Consuming water with fluoride is a strongly suggested habit, especially for children and adolescents due to its ability to strengthen teeth and prevent tooth decay. For questions about how to use and consume fluoride to benefit teeth, schedule an appointment with a dental professional.
