Fluoridation of the drinking water is one of the most impactful public health interventions ever done. Dental caries experience importantly decreased in all parts of the world that adopted the intervention. Implementation of fluoridation of the drinking water to populations has always been the focus of criticism, and these discussions often focus on the safety of the intervention. When asked about safety, many people will tend to assume a more cautious position, and the question regarding safety of fluoridation of the drinking water never goes away. Fluoridation of toothpastes also provides the same impact on dental caries experience in populations. It is reasonable to propose that water fluoridation may not be implemented anymore since there is a feasible and effective replacement for it. Finally, this chapter revisits the discussed effects of fluorides on overall health, with particular emphasis on cognition and intelligence.
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