The World Health Organization states “fluoridation of water supplies, where possible, is the most effective public health measure for the prevention of dental decay.” Such a compelling statement demonstrates the global impact that water fluoridation has had since its introduction in the early 20th century.
Despite this endorsement, water fluoridation remains a controversial topical in Canada. The issue has made its way into the media as cities re-examine the decision of incorporating fluoride into their water supplies. We are facing a frequent questioning of the validity of fluoridation by reasonable people wanting to be reassured that policy-makers are abreast of the current evidence on safety and efficacy of fluoridation. The dentist’s task in presenting the science is made more difficult by the extremist tactics used by anti-fluoride organizations who are not interested in an objective assessment of the evidence but rather prefer the fear-mongering that seems to work so well in politics these days.
It is indeed ironic that the beneficial effects of fluoride in drinking water were discovered while studying its negative effects on health. It was while trying to show that fluoride was responsible for unsightly brown spots on tooth surfaces, the tell-tale signs of fluorosis, that the research instead uncovered its beneficial effects in protecting tooth enamel.
This true story highlights that, like any drug, fluoride has the potential to do both good and harm. Through in-depth research fluoride has been shown to have safe and beneficial effects for the public.
In my opinion, the improvements to oral health among Canadians as a result of the high quality of care provided by dental professionals would be undermined by the removal of fluoridation from the water supply.
We encourage all of our patients to become more familiar with the evidence as there is a lot available on the Ontario Dental Association website (www.youroralhealth.ca).
Our office offers appointments throughout the week including evenings, Saturdays and Sundays (by appointment as days and times vary). We always welcome ne patients, emergencies and offer free consultations. And we rely on your referrals for our growth.
Our dentists provide a full range of treatment all under one roof to minimize the need for outside referrals. Some of the treatment we provide includes the full service and placement of dental implants, root canal therapy, wisdom tooth surgery, sedation, invisalign orthodontics, and cosmetic treatments. Most importantly, our preventive dental care program aims to reduce the risk of you and your family requiring more invasive and costly treatment.
Our office is located in the heart of Thornhill in Vaughan. Call today to schedule your appointment.
