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Fluorine, from which fluoride is derived, is the 13th most abundant element and is released into the environment naturally in both water and air. |
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Fluoride is naturally present in all water. Community water fluoridation is the addition of fluoride to adjust the natural fluoride concentration of a community's water supply to the level recommended for optimal dental health, approximately 1.0 ppm (parts per million). |
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Community water fluoridation is an effective, safe, and inexpensive way to prevent tooth decay. Fluoridation benefits Americans of all ages and socioeconomic status. |
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Fluoride's main effect occurs after the tooth has erupted above the gum. This topical effect happens when small amounts of fluoride are maintained in the mouth in saliva and dental plaque (the film that adheres to tooth enamel). |
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Fluoride works by stopping or even reversing the tooth decay process. It keeps the tooth enamel strong and solid by preventing the loss of (and enhancing the reattachment of) important minerals from the tooth enamel. |
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Of the 50 largest cities in the United States, 43 have community water fluoridation. Fluoridation reaches 62% of the population on public water supplies—more than 144 million people. |
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Water fluoridation costs, on average, 72 cents per person per year in U.S. communities (1999 dollars). |
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Fluoride also benefits adults, decreasing the risk of cavities at the root surface as well as the enamel crown. Use of fluoridated water and fluoride dental products will help people maintain oral health and keep more permanent teeth. |
