| Dental |
Fluoride
Fluoride is a common element in the earth’s crust and is
present in ground water naturally from trace amounts to 5 ppm (parts per
million). Sources of fluoride for people are water, commercial beverages and
food, vitamin supplements, topical fluoride treatments and toothpaste.
Fluoride increases the resistance of tooth enamel to acids. Acids are formed by bacteria that are normally present in the mouth and can lead to decay. The presence of low levels of fluoride, up to 1 ppm in drinking water, can reduce cavities as much as 40%.
Fluorosis
If you are on a water system or use a well naturally high in fluoride you can protect your children against fluorosis and still benefit from the decay reducing effects of the fluoride in the water. New recommendations from the Ontario Association of Public Health Dentistry now say to brush with only a “smear” of fluoridated toothpaste as soon as the first tooth erupts. This would be around six months. Parents should also supervise young children when they are brushing.
Safe Water Committee
The health unit has a safe water committee that monitors communal water systems in our area and informs professionals and the public of any conditions that may be of concern. Naturally occurring fluoride levels in communal water systems are monitored by the safe water committee. Some communal water sources in the Grey Bruce area contain moderate to high levels of naturally occurring fluoride. Where the fluoride exceeds 1.5 ppm, we are obligated to notify families and service providers of the effects of excessive exposure to fluoride from other sources. Families on these systems will receive a fact sheet on fluoride.| Disclaimer | Privacy Statement | Viewing / Printing PDF Files |
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We work with the Grey Bruce community to protect and promote health
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Phone: 519-376-9420 or |
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