Fluoride, currently being considered by some regions for addition to water to enhance dental strength, may cause damage to bones and teeth if present in excessive amounts, according to a study published yesterday (March 22).
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(Photo: VNN) |
The National Research Council (EPA) of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences suggests establishing a new limit for the maximum allowable level of fluoride in water, reducing it from the current level of 4 mg per liter of water.
The study indicates that excess fluoride levels at 2 mg per liter of water and below can lead to minor damage. It also shows that young children exposed to the current maximum fluoride levels “are at risk of severe dental enamel damage, a condition characterized by discolored teeth, loss of enamel, and cavities.”
This condition can affect the function of dental enamel, which plays a crucial role in protecting teeth and the underlying dental tissues from decay and infection. Prolonged exposure to high fluoride levels may increase the risk of bone fractures.
The EPA report states that in the U.S., over 160 million people consume water with artificially added fluoride at levels of 0.7-1.2 mg per liter. Meanwhile, about 1.4 million Americans drink naturally fluoridated water with levels ranging from 2.0-3.9 mg per liter. Approximately 200,000 of them may be consuming water at or above the maximum fluoride limit.
T.VY
