Fluoride in Drinking Water : A Review of Fluoridation and Regulation Issues / Mary Tiemann.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Tiemann, Mary, author.

Series:

CRS report for Congress, RL33280

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Water--Fluoridation.

Water.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (45 pages).

Place of Publication:

Washington, District of Columbia : Congressional Research Service, Library of Congress, 2011.

Summary:

The fluoridation of drinking water often generates both strong support and opposition within communities. This practice is controversial because fluoride has been found to have beneficial effects at low levels and is intentionally added to many public water supplies; however, at higher concentrations, it is known to have toxic effects. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the amount of fluoride that may be present in public water supplies to protect against fluoride's adverse health effects. Fluoridation opponents have expressed concern regarding potential adverse health effects of fluoride ingestion, and some view the practice as an undemocratic infringement on individual freedom. The medical and public health communities generally have recommended water fluoridation, citing it as a safe, effective, and equitable way to provide dental health protection community-wide. Because the use of fluoridated dental products and the consumption of food and beverages made with fluoridated water have increased since the PHS recommended optimal levels for fluoridation, many people now may be exposed to more fluoride than had been anticipated. Consequently, questions have emerged as to whether current water fluoridation practices and levels offer the most appropriate ways to provide the expected beneficial effects of fluoride while avoiding adverse effects (most commonly, tooth mottling or pitting -- dental fluorosis) that may result from ingestion of too much fluoride when teeth are developing. Also, scientific uncertainty regarding the health effects of exposure to higher levels of fluoride adds controversy to decisions regarding water fluoridation.

Notes:

Description based on publisher supplied metadata and other sources.