Water Fluoridation’s Role in Reducing Tooth Decay
Water fluoridation has played a significant role in improving oral health. Numerous studies and reviews on fluoridation have been published, making it one of the most widely studied public health measures in history. Studies show that community water fluoridation prevents about 25% of tooth decay in children and adults, even in an era with widespread availability of fluoride form other sources, such as fluoride toothpaste.
Tooth decay is caused by sugars in food and beverages being converted into acid by the bacteria a dental plaque, a thin, sticky colorless deposit on teeth. The acid attacks the tooth enamel (the hard surface of the tooth) or root surface. After repeated attacks, the enamel or root surface loses minerals (a process called demineralization), and the acids are bacteria penetrated the dentin (and inner softer layer of tooth). Without intervention, the decay process can reach the innermost part of the tooth called the pulp. The soft tissue of the pulp contain nerves and blood vessels. Once the decay enters the pulp, the pulp becomes infected, and without treatment, the infection progresses and travels into the surrounding tissues. It can enter the bloodstream and potentially spread the infection to the other part of the body like the brain or the throat closed off the airway, which can be life-threatening.
There are a number of factors that increase and individual’s risk for tooth decay.
• Recent history of tooth decay
• Elevated oral bacteria count
• Inadequate exposure to fluoride
• Exposed roots
• Frequent intake of sugar or sugary foods and sugar-sweetened beverages
• Poor or inadequate oral hygiene
• Decreased flow of saliva
• Deep pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of teeth
Exposure to fluoride is a key component in any recommended decay prevention strategy; however, the use of fluoride alone with not prevent all the tooth decay. In formulating a decay prevention program, in addition to consuming fluoridated tap water, a number of intervention strategies should be considered. These can include improved easily home care, including brushing with fluoride toothpaste, reducing sugar in the diet, placement of dental sealants, home use of prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste, and professionally applied topical treatments.
