Table of Contents
Who invented fluoride?
Around the turn of the 20th century, Colorado dentist Dr. Frederick S. McKay noticed many of his patients had something known as dental fluorosis, which causes staining of the teeth.
When did Australia start putting fluoride in water?
1960’s
Water fluoridation began in Australia in the 1960’s and has made a significant contribution to improving the oral health of Australians. Along with good oral hygiene and a healthy diet it can help prevent dental decay.
Where does the fluoride in our water come from?
The mineral fluoride occurs naturally on earth and is released from rocks into the soil, water, and air. All water contains some fluoride. Usually, the fluoride level in water is not enough to prevent tooth decay; however, some groundwater and natural springs can have naturally high levels of fluoride.
When did dentists start using fluoride?
1901
Fluoride was first added to drinking water in Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1945, just a decade or so after scientists first identified its teeth-saving properties. In 1901, a dentist named Dr. Fredrick McKay moved to Colorado Springs and noticed what the area’s residents called “Colorado brown stain” on patients’ teeth.
When was fluoride added to Sydney water?
Fluoride has been added to water supplies in NSW commencing with Yass in 1956.
What percentage of fluoride is in water?
Well water (groundwater) fluoride levels vary depending on the minerals in the rock and ores that the water passes through. Fluoride in ocean water (96.5 percent of Earth’s water) is typically in the range of 1.2 to 1.4 ppm.
Where is fluoride found in nature?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring substance found in rocks that leaches into groundwater; it’s also found in surface water. The natural level of fluoride in the water varies depending on the type of water (groundwater or surface) and the type of rocks and minerals it’s in contact with.
How long has fluoride been added to water?
This led to the introduction of schemes to add fluoride to water supplies to improve dental health. Community water fluoridation schemes have operated for more than 70 years; the first scheme was introduced in the US in 1945. The first substantive UK scheme was established in Birmingham in 1964.
Which states put fluoride in their water?
2012 State Fluoridation Percentage Calculations and States Ranked by Fluoridation Percentage
| State | Persons receiving fluoridated water | % |
|---|---|---|
| Alabamaf | 3,812,180 | 78.6% |
| Alaska | 361,240 | 52.9% |
| Arizona | 3,199,068 | 57.8% |
| Arkansas | 1,785,679 | 66.9% |