The only sign of deficiency of fluoride is an increased risk of tooth decay. In colder climates, the amount of fluoride in drinking water is 1.2 milligrams per liter. In warmer climates, where people drink more water, only 0.7 milligrams of fluoride per liter is used. Some studies have shown a reduced incidence of dental decay in populations drinking fluoridated water. There does not appear to be any advantage to fluoride supplements, topical fluoride, or fluoridated water in people over the age of 16, as the teeth have hardened by this age. In children and younger teens, topical fluoride treatments seem to reduce tooth decay.
INTAKE OF FLUORIDE
The major source of fluoride in the United States is fluoridated water. About twothirds of the population of the United States drinks fluoridated water. The fluoride content of food is extremely low. Only tea and sardines have been found to contain even small amounts of fluoride. The swallowing of fluoride-containing toothpaste is a major source of fluoride intake, especially in children.
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