Fluoride

Both organofluorine compounds and inorganic fluorine containing compounds are called fluorides. Fluoride is found naturally in low concentration in drinking water and foods. Waters from underground sources are more likely to have higher levels of fluoride, like they do here in Colorado. Fluoride-containing compounds are used in topical and systemic fluoride therapy for preventing tooth decay. Even though Fluoride isn't a essential element, the topical results of it preventing tooth decay is undeniable. Its main function is to harden teeth and bones. A fluoride deficency can result in major tooth decay. It is often associated with oral hygiene. It is a diatomic molecule. Typically found in lower concentrations naturally but in foods and drinking water as well.
 * Fluoride** is the anion F−, the reduced form of fluorine when as an ion and when bonded to another element.

**__Use of Sodium Fluoride in the Treatment of Osteoporosis__**

Human osteoporosis, a state of reduced bone mass as defined radiologically, has been treated with sodium fluoride. The metabolic balance studies have indicated that a modest calcium retention occurred following fluoride therapy. Radiological studies have shown that the initiation of skeletal fluorosis after 1 yr or more of fluoride feeding in high doses was manifested by an increase in bone density in a somewhat coarse and irregular distribution in 4 patients. X-ray diffraction studies have shown that fluoride induced crystal growth and perfection. Bone histological studies have elucidated some of the effects of fluoride on bone surface remodeling dynamics, histochemical composition and cell metabolism. The clinical significance of fluoride therapy, however, remains unestablished.

__**Water Fluoridation**__ Water fluoridation is the controlled addition of fluoride to a public water supply to reduce tooth decay. Fluoridated water has fluoride at a level that is effective for preventing cavities; this can occur naturally or by adding fluoride. Fluoridated water operates on tooth surfaces: in the mouth it creates low levels of fluoride in saliva, which reduces the rate at which tooth enamel demineralizes and increases the rate at which it remineralizes in the early stages of cavities Community water fluoridation in the United States is partly due to the research of Dr. Frederick McKay, who pressed the dental community for an investigation into what was then known as "Colorado Brown Stain." The condition, now known as dental fluorosis, when in its severe form is characterized by cracking and pitting of the teeth.


 * [[image:fluoride.jpg caption="Fluoridation does not effect the taste, smell or appearance of drinking water"]] [[image:fluoride.jpg]]