The subject of fluoride is not really a dental health issue. Since the greatest single source of fluoride is delivered to the individual via the municiple water systems, it is more of a public health issue. Regardless of how it is delivered, fluoride is a poison, and increasing evidence suggests it can create, or contribute, to many health problems.

Today, people are exposed to far greater quantities of fluoride than 25 years ago. At that time, the major source of fluoride exposure was fluoridated water. Today, it is also found in mouthwash, toothpaste, rinses, tablets and some prepared foods. Some evidence shows that fluorosis has affected children in areas where the water is not even fluoridated. No one knows how much fluoride each individual is getting. Fluoride poisoning is definitely something to watch for, especially in communities where water is fluoridated.