Too Many are Getting Too Much Fluoride
By Bill Osmunson DDS, MPH
Too many are getting too much fluoride. How do we know? Dental fluorosis.
In the National Research Council (NRC) Review (2006), Fluoride in Drinking Water: A Scientific Review of EPA’s Standards, the authors were in unanimous agreement: “Severe Dental Fluorosis is an adverse effect to the teeth.”
The US CDC says: “Dental fluorosis only occurs when younger children consume too much fluoride… when teeth are developing under the gums.” www.cdc.gov/fluoridation/safety/dental_fluorosis.htm#a2 (accessed 10/2015)
In the 1950s, when water fluoridation started, the public was assured that no more than 10-15% of the public would have dental fluorosis, and that dental fluorosis rates would not increase. In 2000, the National Health Assessment and Nutrition Evaluation Survey (NHANES) found up to 40% of adolescents had dental fluorosis, with 60% unaffected. Compare 2012 NHANES findings showing up to 70% with dental fluorosis, and only 30% unaffected. Dental fluorosis rates are rising.
Where is all the extra fluoride coming from? Fluoride pesticides, fluoride post-harvest fumigants, fluoride medications, fluoride dental products, fluoride industrial products, fluoride gas.
In addition to dental fluorosis, dental caries increase when children get too much fluoride. We know insufficient calcium or iodine in the diet creates additional vulnerability to fluoride retention, including dental fluorosis. There is evidence of chemicals that boost fluoride harm (aluminum and lead, for example), and perhaps others still unknown, which enhance the absorption, retention, or effect of fluoride. We live in a chemical soup.
What is the best way to reduce the excess fluoride exposure?
One size doesn’t fit all. Dental fluorosis, often dismissed as merely cosmetic, is really the visible evidence of fluoride toxicity. Coupled with new disturbing evidence that fluoride and/or fluorosis are linked to cognitive decline, it’s time to stop artificially fluoridating water supplies.
Judgment requires a careful review of all streams of evidence. Again, I am requesting that fluoridation proponents take time to review other streams of evidence so careful judgment can be made.
Put fluoride back in doctors’ offices where it can be better controlled. Turn off the fluoride pumps. Save the money. Give people freedom to choose.
