How does Fluoride - Flourine get into your water?
Fluoride can occur in drinking water naturally as a result of the geological composition of soils and bedrock. Some areas of Britain have high levels of naturally occurring Fluorine which can dissolve easily into groundwater as it moves through gaps and porous spaces between rocks.
Fluoride can also be added to public drinking water supplies as a public health measure for reducing cavities in teeth among the treated population.
Fluoridation is not required by EPA, which is prohibited by the Safe Drinking Water Act from requiring the addition of any substance to drinking water for preventive health care purposes.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide recommendations about the optimal levels of Fluoride in drinking water in order to prevent tooth decay.
The decision whether or not to add fluoride to drinking water is made on a local basis.
Consumers served by public water systems who wish to learn about fluoridation of their drinking water can visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
My Water's Fluoride (MWF) WebFluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water in varying amounts, depending on where in the UK you live.
It can help prevent tooth decay, which is why it's added to many brands of toothpaste and, in some areas, to the water supply through a process called fluoridation.
The Health Implications of Fluoride
There have been some concerns that fluoride may be linked to a variety of health conditions. Reviews of the risks have so far found no convincing evidence to support these concerns.
However, a condition called dental Fluorosis can sometimes occur if a child's teeth are exposed to too much fluoride when they're developing. Read more about looking after children's teeth and looking after your baby's teeth.
Mild dental Fluorosis can be seen as very fine pearly white lines or flecking on the surface of the teeth. Severe Fluorosis can cause the tooth's enamel to become pitted or discoloured.
It's uncommon in the UK for Fluorosis to be severe enough to seriously affect the appearance of teeth. This is because fluoride levels in water are carefully monitored by the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) and adjusted if necessary.
