Protecting Maternal and Child Health
Is Fluoride Exposure Harmful During Pregnancy?
Examining the Potential Risks and Implications
Fluoride, a mineral found in water and food, is widely recognized for its dental health benefits. It has been a significant ingredient in drinking water in the United States since the 1940s, reducing tooth decay. It also reduces pain and suffering due to fewer toothaches, dental extractions, and dental infections among children.
Floride promotes stronger teeth by controlling early dental caries in several ways. It’s also a cost-effective means of improving dental health as it is relatively cheaper. Floride can be conveniently added to drinking water and is economical. By the same means, it reduces health inequities, mainly by reducing young children’s admissions to hospitals for dental extractions.
Currently, 75% of the U.S. population receives Fluorinated drinking water. However, recent concerns have highlighted the possible adverse effects of fluoride exposure, particularly during pregnancy. The recent findings point to the likely impact of this mineral on fetal…
