Fluoride

Fluoride is a somewhat toxic chemical element that is a common toothpaste, mouthwash, and water additive throughout the developed world. It is commonly thought to work to prevent tooth decay.

Anti-Fluoridation Movement

Despite the hysterical charges of anti-fluoridationists, community water fluoridation (CWF) has been shown to be safe and effective. It has a 60+ year track record. CWF was hailed as one of the top 10 public health measures of the 20th Century by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and has been endorsed by every U.S. Surgeon General for the past 50 years.

More than 2/3 of the population of the United States now enjoys the cavity-fighting benefits of community water fluoridation.

Avoiding Fluoride

The best way to avoid fluoride is to have your own source of water, such as a spring or well. Some communities in the United States do not practice fluoridation, but many others do. If you are unsure whether your community uses fluoride, you can purchase a home test kit. Do not trust the fluoride information self-reported by your local water company.

Bottled water can be a good alternative, but many bottlers now add fluoride. Look for spring water or filter your own using a "reverse osmosis" filter.

Nearly all bottled beverages, including soda, beer, and baby formula, use fluoridated water. Use dehydrated products and rehydrate them yourself. When possible, make your own wine and fruit juices (commercial juices are either rehydrated or come from fruit irrigated with fluoridated water).

Other sources of fluoride include animal bones (found in deboned animal products like McNuggets and fish sticks), Teflon-coated pans, most cosmetic dental inserts, shellfish, and bananas.