Recently, fluoride has become a hot topic of controversy in Florida. For what it's worth, I would like to give my two cents on how I see the value in this element.
Before coming to southeast Florida, I was a practicing dentist in Fort Myers, where we saw patients not only from the area itself but also from the middle of the state, where the population relies on well water. Firsthand, there is a difference. Although genetics and diet have an important effect on your dental health, fluoride is a good adjunct in the prevention of tooth decay.
The claims that fluoride is a neurotoxin are true—but it depends on the dosage. In water, fluoride is distributed in micro amounts. At large levels, yes, it can harm you (water can also harm you in large amounts—drowning is pretty much too much water). When I had children on well water from areas like Clewiston and LaBelle, I saw an increase in tooth decay. Some of them, by the age of 21, were ending up in full dentures in our office. Again, diet was an issue, but so was the well water, which did not contain this anti-cavity element. Ideally, it would be nice to stop consuming sugary foods, and everyone reading this would floss daily—but it doesn't happen. We are human, with flaws.
Fluoride in small amounts will not kill you, just like the occasional French fry won't kill you either. But if you eat too many French fries or consume large amounts of fluoride, yes, it can cause harm. In life, moderation is key. Fluoride in water and fluoride varnishes are used in small amounts and will only help prevent dental decay, root canals, and hopefully tooth loss.
Do not be afraid. Do not let fear and people shouting loudly get in the way of science. When articles come out claiming harm, consider the potency and the amount dispensed. Drinking one Coke will not hurt you. Drinking two liters a day will rip your intestines out... It's all about moderation.
