Does Fluoride Prevent Dental Cavities?
Fluoride, a natural trace mineral in the diet, is found in drinking water naturally in widely varying concentrations from trace amounts to a dozen parts per million. Much like selenium, manganese and other trace minerals, there is an ideal level of intake. When fluoride’s intake is too low, dental caries could possibly occur. When too high, dental fluorosis will occur. Cardiologist/dentologist Thomas Levy, MD, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, who had worked with biocompatible dentist Dr. Hal Huggins, tells us about the mottling of teeth by the pathological onset of fluorosis. “Known in the United States since at least 1916, dental fluorosis is sometimes referred to as “Colorado Brown Stain” and “Texas Teeth” as these two states have a high endemic fluoride level in much of their drinking water,” states Dr. Levy. “In its advanced stages, affected teeth demonstrate pitting and brittleness. Often chipping, and a yellow, brown, or black appearance [shows up] in different areas [of the teeth]