Water Fluoridation
Water fluoridation is the controlled addition of fluoride to public drinking water supplies. This process aims to reduce the incidence of dental cavities, particularly in children. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to decay.
Many health organizations, including the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, support water fluoridation as a safe and effective public health measure. The optimal fluoride concentration is typically around 0.7 parts per million, which balances the benefits of cavity prevention while minimizing the risk of dental fluorosis, a condition that can affect tooth appearance.