A few fluoride questions

Regarding the pro- and anti- arguments over fluoridation I would encourage the parties involved to ask themselves a few questions:

Is it possible that the higher incidences of tooth decay in certain populations could be attributed to anything besides a lack of fluoride in the water? For example, what if these kids do not drink water as their go-to, and instead consume soda, or juice, or other sweetened drinks? That would prove two things — one, their consumption of sugar would certainly explain higher tooth decay rates and two, adding fluoride to water kids don’t consume does absolutely nothing for them.

Did it occur to anyone to do more research into the dietary habits and awareness around nutrition, and then focus resources and time on education where needed? This is true outreach and could provide lifelong improvement in habits and health.

Anecdotally, I grew up in a region (Southern California) with fluoridated water and had 6 or 7 cavities before age 10. My young adult daughter is growing up here, and has NEVER HAD A CAVITY. I can prove it.

At the very least this shows that fluoride is no guarantee of great outcomes; personal habits play a much bigger role.

Polly Powell

Spokane