Website reminds residents of value of fluoride
CONCORD – The New Hampshire Dental Society recently re-launched its website, FluorideNH.com, to help inform the public and address questions about community water fluoridation. The website includes general information on water fluoridation, its history, fast facts about fluoride and additional resources. The site also allows users to find local dentists.
“Research shows that optimally fluoridated drinking water is a safe and simple way to help prevent cavities, keep tooth enamel strong and protect against tooth decay,” said Dr. Peter Welnak, president of the New Hampshire Dental Society. “We built FluorideNH.com to serve as a resource to help everyone understand the benefits of community water fluoridation and get all of the facts in one place,” Welnak continued.
Leading health organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association, the World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentristry all recommend fluoridated water as a safe and effective way for children and adults alike to prevent tooth decay. The CDC has called water fluoridation one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.
Fluoridation of public water systems is simply the precise adjustment of the existing, naturally-occurring fluoride levels in drinking water. Such levels are recommended by the US Public Health Service, which monitors national, regional and local rates of tooth decay. As a result of this carefully researched, administered and monitored fluoridation policy, experts conclude, instances of tooth decay may decrease by 20 percent to 40 percent.
According to the NHDS, water fluoridation is one of many parts of good oral health policy and practices. The society urges adults and children alike to regularly visit a dentist, for example. Residents should also remember to brush their teeth twice daily for two minutes and floss regularly using ADA-certified products.
To learn more, visit www.FluorideNH.com
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