Free Republic

Total tooth loss increased while Americans steadily receive more fluoridated water and food, according to recent government statistics. Fluoride, hailed as a cavity preventive is supposed to enhance tooth retention; but fails expectations. In 1999, 24.4% of Americans over 65 were reported edentulous(1) by the Centers for Disease Control, ranging from 14% in Hawaii (9% fluoridated) to 48% in West Virginia (87% fluoridated). However, the April 2003 Journal of the American Dental Association reports toothlessness averages 30.3% with poor seniors suffering the highest rates at 45.1%.(2) Yet 65.8% of Americans receive fluoridated tap water, up 3.7% since 1992 (3) and...