Fluoride is found in municipal water due to the low level of fluoride in water and an increase in demands of fluoride as a way to counter tooth decay as seen in toothpaste. But still, the constant ingestion of fluoride has been decried as being harmful to children and even adults. For the best fluoridated water filter, check these systems reviewed by Water Filter Guru.
Sources of Flouride
Flouride can be found in different places but primarily in your bones and teeth. And can also be found in the soil, water, plants, rock, and air. So as much as they are present in toothpaste, there should be a reduction in the usage of the same from other sources.
One of the major ways through which we gain contact with fluoride is through our water supply and toothpaste (but most times regulated).
How Does Fluoridated Water Affect Children
Dental Enamel Fluorosis
For babies who drink formula, they are at risk of having a condition known as dental enamel fluorosis affecting their dental formation. Thereby causing permanent damages to the teeth.
Effects on Intelligence and IQ Level
It has been said that fluoride affects the intelligence of children. It reduces the proper functionality of said intelligence having fetal effects on the child’s cerebral.
Neurological Problems
Excessive fluoride contacts could lead to many neurological problems affecting the cognitive level of a child.
In 2014, fluoride was documented as a neurotoxin that is hazardous to a child development
Discoloration of Teeth
Too much fluoride intakes can cause enamel fluorosis. This is a permanent discoloration and mottling of teeth. So far, your child will get the required fluoride from toothpaste and the water they consume even sometimes the food. It is expedient to control the ingestion of fluoride through the water.
Skeletal Fluorosis
Constant exposure to fluoride causes bone diseases in which bones become hardened and less elastic resulting in impaired joint mobility.
Thyroid
Excessive use of fluoride damage the parathyroid gland resulting in a condition known as hyperparathyroidism. A condition is an excessive secretion of parathyroid hormones which result in an abnormally high level of calcium in the bloodstream. It also causes thyroid dysfunction.
And it can also cause bone resorption or osteoporosis a condition which is defined as the bone having a lower calcium concentration and could result in bone fractures.
Cardiovascular Disease
Excessive use of fluoride causes many cardiovascular problems such as arteriosclerosis and arterial calcification. High blood pressure, myocardial damage, and cardiac insufficiency.
Reproductive Problems
Fluoride causes reproductive issues in girls such as a tendency for lower fertility and early puberty.
Bone Cancer
Excessive contact with fluoride can cause bone cancer, osteoarthritis, and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). The above conditions affect the joint and bone.
Skin Irritation
Fluoride can cause acne and other skin problems in children.
Uses Of Fluoride
As much as we talk about the harmful effects of fluoride, we should at least know the importance of controlled usage of fluoride.
- Fluoride usage reduces the risk of tooth decay.
- Offers protection against cavities and strengthen teeth enamel.
- Reduces the chances of having dental treatment.
- Fluoride prevents demineralization caused by the catalyst between bacteria and sugar.