Fluoride is commonly seen and heard on toothpaste commercials and other dental care products. This is synthetically made for these dental care purposes but is naturally found in soil, water, and food. Water fluoridation, specifically, has been done or initiated by water authorities to increase the levels of communities. This helps those who have low levels of fluorine in their water; and to prevent the spreading of tooth decay.

Tooth decay is a common dental health problem that affects children and adults; and back then, water fluoridation seemed a cost effective way to reduce the risks of this dental problem. Only a few people could afford regular dental check-ups and it seemed a good way to save them the extra cost. However, there have been health concerns that were linked to fluoridation and it has definitely outweighed its said benefits.

Here are a few of the bad effects of too much exposure of this element.

Dental fluorosis. High concentrations of fluoride can cause children who are exposed to it to have mild dental fluorosis. The development of children’s teeth is affected and can be seen as white streaks or dots in the enamel of the tooth. There isn’t exactly a health effect on the tooth but the discoloration is very noticeable. Formula milk mixed with fluoride-free water can help prevent developing babies from having dental fluorosis.

Skeletal fluorosis.  This bone disease can lead to severe pain of bones and joints over time. Too much exposure to fluoride can trigger this bone disease that makes bones hard and decreases joint mobility as bone tissue accumulate.

Thyroid problems. The damage that fluoride does to the parathyroid gland can result in hyperparathyroidism. This creates uncontrollable levels of parathyroid hormones. This will result in the depletion of calcium in bone structures and teeth as it gets dumped into your blood stream. This makes you more prone to fractures, tooth decay, and cavities.

TMJ Disorder. This is referred to as the temporomandibular joint disorder. This disorder involves the jaw joints that cause mild to severe pain. This affects most women than men and can affect facial muscles as muscle spasms, jaw joints misalignment, and joint pop as you chew or bite. This disorder also causes the head region, neck, and ears to hurt.

Like any mineral, too much fluoride is a bad thing. Exposure to too much of it is not likely to happen unless there are accidents, contamination, industrial fire or explosions. There are immediate body reactions to high levels of fluoride as if you are experiencing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, excessive salivation, and headaches.

It is true that water fluoridation help in the efforts of preventing tooth decay but this natural mineral can be harmful to your dental and general health at high levels. You can always test your water as some areas have naturally occurring high levels of fluoride. Tooth decay is preventable with simple and regular dental care habits. You can always consult with your dental specialist about fluoridation concerns and the prevention or management of its effects.