Is it Still Necessary to Add Fluoride to Our Drinking Water?

In April, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced the first decrease in half a century of the amount of fluoride it recommends in our drinking water. HHS says the recommendation is intended to prevent staining of tooth enamel that can happen with too much exposure to fluoride, which in the right amount can prevent tooth decay. HHS cited the easy availability of products like mouthwashes and toothpaste that contain fluoride as a reason less fluoride can be in the water.

Meanwhile, in recent weeks here in Greater Houston, The Woodlands held public hearings to discuss whether or not it should start adding fluoride to its water supply. Until now, it had enough occurring naturally in its water supply, but with an upcoming addition of new ground water to its supply – its fluoride concentration will be diluted.

We learn more about fluoride, why it’s added to drinking water, and what impact it can have on your teeth, from Dr. Ryan Quock, Associate Professor and Vice Chair of the Restorative Dentistry and Prosthodontics Department at UTHealth.