does canada add fluoride to water ?

Introduction

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that can help to prevent tooth decay. It is added to drinking water in many countries, including Canada.

There are both benefits and risks associated with water fluoridation. In this article, we will discuss the history of water fluoridation in Canada, the current status of water fluoridation in Canada, and the pros and cons of water fluoridation.

What is fluoride?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in rocks, soil, and water. It is also added to some toothpastes and mouthwashes.

Fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. It also helps to repair early signs of tooth decay.

What are the benefits of fluoride?

The benefits of fluoride include:

• Reduced risk of tooth decay
• Stronger tooth enamel
• Repair of early signs of tooth decay

What are the risks of fluoride?

The risks of fluoride include:

• Dental fluorosis (white spots on teeth)
• Skeletal fluorosis (a rare condition that can cause bone pain and weakness)

Does Canada add fluoride to water?

Yes, Canada adds fluoride to water in many communities. The decision of whether or not to fluoridate water is made at the municipal level.

History of water fluoridation in Canada

The first community in Canada to fluoridate its water was Brantford, Ontario, in 1945. By 1960, over 50% of Canadian communities were fluoridating their water.

In recent years, there has been some debate about the safety of water fluoridation. As a result, some communities have decided to stop fluoridating their water. However, the majority of Canadian communities continue to fluoridate their water.

Current status of water fluoridation in Canada

As of 2023, approximately 45% of Canadian communities fluoridate their water. This means that about 14.4 million Canadians have access to fluoridated drinking water.

Where can I find out if my water is fluoridated?

You can find out if your water is fluoridated by contacting your local water utility. You can also check the website of the Canadian Dental Association for a list of fluoridated communities.

The pros and cons of water fluoridation

Benefits of water fluoridation

The benefits of water fluoridation include:

• Reduced risk of tooth decay
• Stronger tooth enamel
• Repair of early signs of tooth decay

Risks of water fluoridation

The risks of water fluoridation include:

• Dental fluorosis (white spots on teeth)
• Skeletal fluorosis (a rare condition that can cause bone pain and weakness)

Conclusion

Water fluoridation is a controversial topic. There are both benefits and risks associated with water fluoridation. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to fluoridate water is a personal one.