[TomB]

But the bacteria that causes decay is not prevented by floridation. That bacteria is present in all mouths.

It isn't the presence of the bacteria, it is the number. People with rampant caries have much more of the bacteria in their mouths, causing more of a problem.

[chyk]

Again Tom, with mlmr this is a case of the scientific error and medical superstition, and sometimes downright fraud that has permutated the Fl debate. People with not even the basic facts about a paricular scientific or medical issue and its consequences making wrongheaded subterfuge. And the cowardly and equally wrongheaded politicians at the local level (in both parties) afraid to stand up to them.

The original thread about tooth whitening only points out where this all goes. Either by action with the whitening or inaction with Fl the public suffers in either health or economic ways.

With teeth the issue is always trivialized because when it is someone else, or someone elses child, with the rotten teeth, infections, and disfigurement, it is material for jokes. But did you ever notice when those same individuals(like the politicians or media) need a dentist for themselves or their child, they want a dentist who is a cross between Michelangelo, Mother Theresa, and Albert Einstein. What we as dentists have been saying for years is eliminate the need for us completely. Otherwise make us another million, thank you, and take another few billion from the taxpayers and consumers pocketbooks. And live with your elitist, selfish consciences for the kids you have withheld one of the great public health achievements of the 20th century from. Talk about dark ages mentalities.

Hows that for a passonates dentist.