The Dangers of Fluoride

Fluoride is a chemical additive found in most city water (tap water), and in multitudes of toothpastes and other dental products. As I kid, I remember coming home from the dentist with a bottle full of fluoride and being told to brush with it alone once per day.

I've heard things here and there about the dangers of fluoride, but I think that more and more research is coming out proving that it really is no good at all- especially for what it's used for (making enamel stronger). Both the Center for Disease Control and the American Dental Association have claimed that fluoride, especially when given to infants and toddlers, can cause major problems.

Fluorosis causes white and brown spots on the teeth (and presumably the bones). Over exposure to fluoride disrupts the growth process of bones and teeth, causing visible malformations. While many pro-fluoride groups claim that these defects are simply cosmetic, common sense tells us that visible flaws in the protective layers of teeth will certainly lead to other, deeper, problems.

Since most toothpaste, mouth wash, and other dental products contain fluoride, this is a very important issue. Choose toothpastes that are fluoride-free, and drink only water that has been filtered (activated charcoal and ozonated are best). This is especially important for infants and children. Research is coming out in droves about the ill effects of feeding babies formula that has been reconstituted with fluoride containing water. If you do feed your infant formula, use filtered, fluoride-free water. This is also important for children learning to brush their teeth. While fluoride containing toothpaste shouldn't be used at any age, according to many studies, it especially should not be swallowed. So for young children who haven't quite learned the rinsing technique, be certain that the toothpaste you give them is fluoride-free.

The dangers of fluoride, according to the article linked above, include:

• Disrupts synthesis of collagen
• Increased lead absorption
  
• Hyperactivity and/or lethargy
• Muscle disorders
• Brain damage, and lowered IQ
• Arthritis
• Bone fractures
• Lowered thyroid function
• Bone cancer
  
• Dementia
• Inactivates 62 enzymes
• Inhibits formation of antibodies
• Genetic damage and cell death
• Increases tumor and cancer rate
• Disrupts immune system
• Damages sperm and increases infertility

This is enough to push us into a greater awareness of what we are putting into our bodies. My vote: go fluoride-free. It can't hurt.