Fluoride in water has been a topic of discussion and debate for several years now. People feel strongly about how necessary it is to add fluoride into the public water supply. As someone who values both public health and individual choice, I find myself torn between whether or not fluoride should be in our water. On one hand, fluoride has been seen to prevent dental decay. On the other hand, there are many concerns about potential health risks and the idea of mass medication doesn’t seem to pose a positive outcome.
Fluoride in drinking water all began in the early 20th century when researchers discovered that people living in areas with naturally high fluoride levels in water had fewer cavities. Researchers state that by adding fluoride to public water supplies, communities have seen a significant reduction in dental cavities, at least 25% less in adults and children. Health organizations like the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) agree with water fluoridation. They believe that from decades of research fluoride has demonstrated its safety and efficacy when maintained at optimal levels. Optimal levels are typically around 0.7 parts per million (ppm).
Adding to the ongoing debate about fluoride in water, it’s important to think about the money aspect of it all. Administering fluoride into public water is a cheap way to save money on dental health costs. By preventing cavities, communities can cut down on the need for expensive dental treatments and emergency room visits for dental problems. This is especially helpful for low income families who can’t afford routine dental care. The initial cost of setting up fluoridation will be balanced out by the long-term saving in public health spending, which makes it a smart financial choice for most towns and cities.
(Image by Stevepb from Pixabay)
However, we cannot ignore the ethical concerns on the other side of the debate. Some people argue that adding fluoride to public water takes away their choice about what they consume. Unlike other health measures, fluoridation doesn’t give people the option to opt out, which raises questions about consent and personal freedom. There are also concerns about the potential health risks of too much fluoride, like dental fluorosis and possible links to other health problems. These ethical and health concerns mean policymakers must weigh the pros and cons carefully.
From Lakeland Regional High School, two students gave their opinions on whether fluoride should be in their water or not. Freshman Jazlene Pagan said, “Yes, fluoride should be in our water because it helps with dental care.” Pagan then continues to say that fluoride hasn’t had many negative effects and has been proven to be safe in water. The second student interviewed, sophomore Dalia Salem, has a different opinion, and thinks that fluoride should not be in our water. Salem states, “I don’t really think fluoride should be in our water because the science behind it doesn’t 100% back it up.”
It is important to note that most towns in New Jersey, including our local communities, do not add fluoride to the water supply. According to the Passaic County Water Commission, “fluoride is not added to the water, but there are low levels present naturally (fluoride is a natural mineral).”
In summary, while adding fluoride to public water supplies has clear benefits in dental care, the debate isn’t settled. The financial and health benefits need to be balanced with ethical concerns and potential health risks. Public education and transparent decision making are key to addressing the concerns of everyone.
I think a balanced approach that combines public education on good oral hygiene and targeted fluoridation programs in areas with high dental issues is the best way forward. By choosing this alternative it respects that individual choice by keeping everyone informed and educated, and addresses and helps solve the public health needs. Another alternative could even be to increase the accessibility of quality dental care. This would provide individuals with the resources they need to maintain good dental hygiene without affecting everyones water supply with fluoridation.
