Uncovering the Differences: Why Natural Fluoride and Synthetic Fluoride Are Not Created Equal
Water fluoridation is controversial for more than its potential adverse events; there are also concerns about how the fluoride used in water is produced.
Fluoridation of the U.S. public water supply has been a polarizing topic both academically and politically since its start in the 1940s. Debate over its benefits and health risks has raged on as the science has continued to unfold.
This series will explore the contentious findings surrounding this ubiquitous public health measure and answer the question of whether water fluoridation poses a risk and what we should do about it.
Water fluoridation is controversial for more than its potential adverse events on people; there are also concerns about how the fluoride used in water is produced.
Not all fluoride is created equal. Naturally occurring fluoride, such as calcium fluoride (CaF2), is released into the soil as weathered crustal rock and minerals dissolve. The fluoride is then picked up by any source of water and some plants, including those we eat.
