Canada - Increase in kids' cavities linked to bottled water
Increase in kids' cavities linked to bottled water
Fluoride in the tap variety helps strengthen enamel, prevent tooth decay
Catherine Griwkowsky, The Edmonton Journal
Bottled water is likely a factor in rising rates of tooth decay in preschoolers, says a new report from U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Dr. Randall Croutze, an Edmonton dentist, said more people are drinking bottled water that doesn't contain fluoride, which works to prevent cavities. Croutze recommended drinking tap water to prevent cavities.
"It's an extremely low dose of fluoride in the water and it's only beneficial for the strong development for enamel," Croutze said.
A glass of tap water is seen. Bottled water is likely a factor in rising rates of tooth decay in preschoolers, says a new report from U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Andreas Rentz/Getty Images
Between 1988 and 1994, 24 per cent in the two-to-five age group had cavities, compared to 28 per cent between 1999 to 2004.
Croutze said the data "absolutely" applies to Canada as he's seen a large increase in the number of cavities in young patients because of dietary habits.
"We've seen children, 18 months old, and they'll have rampant carries that decimated their teeth. They end up with stainless steel crowns and extractions," Croutze said. "It's becoming a bigger problem."
There are several ways sugar sneaks into our diet.
For example, pop and sugary juices are obvious culprits in tooth decay, but milk, unsweetened juice, dried fruits and bottled water may be just as harmful.
Younger children are at a greater risk of developing cavities because they have thinner enamel, poorer oral hygiene and tend to eat more sugar than adults.
Children under six shouldn't brush with fluoride because they cannot properly spit the toothpaste out. If they swallow large amounts of fluoride, it can be toxic. They also need a toothpaste with a weaker taste so they brush longer.
Croutze pointed to higher cavity-rates in Calgary compared to Edmonton. Edmonton fluoridated the water in 1967, whereas Calgary did not start until 1992.
Croutze said while the amount of sugar in food and drinks plays a factor, the bacterial growth depends mostly on the number of times the mouth is exposed to sugar or acid.
The study found tooth decay in six to 11-year-olds dropped from 25 per cent to about 21 per cent. There was a decrease to 59 per cent from 68 per cent in people aged 12 to 19.
reporter2@thejournal.canwest.com
Toothy Tips
Tips to prevent tooth decay in children under six:
- Limit the number of times the child is exposed to sugary foods and drinks
- Set a good example by brushing and flossing
- Before teeth come in, wipe the gums with a washcloth after feedings
- Brush with a non-fluoride toothpaste
- Help kids floss
- Get a flavour of toothpaste the child enjoys. Strong mint flavors almost burn the mouth
- Drink water with fluoride
- Children should have their teeth checked every six months
© The Edmonton Journal 2008
COMMENTS ON THIS STORYAdd Your CommentChristopher Fri, May 2, 08 at 11:20 AM
Yet ANOTHER reason not to drink bottled water! How did we ever get tricked into thinking that bottled water was a good idea?
sighFri, May 2, 08 at 11:29 AM
Fluoride is a toxin and should not be consumed, how about brushing your teeth at least twice a day.
TinaFri, May 2, 08 at 11:29 AM
I'm confused, no fluoride in kids toothpaste because if swallowed in large amounts it can be toxic. But DRINK water WITH fluoride? BIt of a contradiction, no?
mommy3Fri, May 2, 08 at 12:06 PM
As a CDA, I know the benefits of fluoride but on the other side of the coin there are the negatives. When you look at kids today and you see the white "spots" on their teeth....that is caused by fluoride in the water. It may be a benefit but what teenage girl wants to smile with white tye dyed teeth. There are the pros and cons to everything and this is just one.
jmbFri, May 2, 08 at 01:13 PM
I'm so tired of the inconsistencies I hear from dentists, dental websites, family doctors and new-child community health care workers about proper teech care for very young children. This article says no fluoride toothpaste for kids under six. May 2 year old child's dentist said she could should start using fluoride toothpaste at 18 months, her doctor said even earlier. Get your story straight health care 'professionals'.
Fluoride is a known poisonFri, May 2, 08 at 01:59 PM
What is this garbage? Fluoride is a known poison that affects the brain and does nothing to protect kids from cavities. Try feeding the kids less sugar.
Ban FluorideFri, May 2, 08 at 02:04 PM
Fluoride should be banned and anyone who has done their research knows this. Fluoride is a poisonous toxin that affects the brain. http://www.wholywater.com/fluoride.html "The Journal of the American Medical Association (1990-1992) has reported a greater incidence of hip fractures in fluoridated areas in the U.S. and Britain. TheNew England Journal of Medicine (1990) reported that fluoride treatment of osteoporosis patients resulted in higher hip fracture rates. The governmental National Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences (1990) has shown that fluoride causes cancer. Former promoters of fluoridation have since found that fluoridation does not reduce tooth decay (1987-1988). Scientist at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (1989-1993) have come out against fluoridation because they have confirmed that it does not reduce tooth decay and that there is clear evidence that fluoride causes cancer. The American Chemical Society published a 17-page cover story (1988) questioning the safety and effectiveness of fluoridation."
ianFri, May 2, 08 at 02:30 PM
Sodium Fluroide is a toxic waste which is deadly to humans and creates brain tumors in rats to the point of death. Why are we adding this chemical to our water when it is the topical application which has the most benefits?
Jim SchultzFri, May 2, 08 at 02:34 PM
It would be very interesting if you would mention one current study that has data showing ingested systemic fluoride is the primary or any benefit. The science shows the opposite ,that topical post eruptive is the major benefit and drinking fluoride provides little or most likely no benefit. You can read a list of 20 plus studies that prove the point at fluoridealert.org. Fluoride overdose in children is skyrocketing causing discolored brittle enamel in about half the children now when fluoridated. See Pizzo 2007 for specifics. A study by Burt 2007 disproves this foolish idea of bottled water causing cavities. The huge increase in cavities seen is in fluoridated inner cities long fluoridated and poor nutrition,lack of dental care and sippy cups and bottles of soda ,juice and milk. Dentists believe the fluoride myth and ignore over welming science so we suffer cumulative toxic exposure to fluoride which is more toxic then lead. Instead of just one source of fluoride most beverages, foods and dental care products mean we are over medicated even in non fluoridated cities. The article did get one thing right avoid fluoride toothpaste in children. It is the cause of much dental fluorosis of the very ugly type by swallowing too much. Watch the videos on the website by real life reasearchers who get the science right. Also the FDA has yet to approve any ingested fluoride product ever. They tested pure sodium fluoride then almost always use a different chemical directly from smokestack scrubbers for toxic waste at phosphate/uranium mines that has 20 plus toxic contaminates that they do not mention. It is really cheap and helps industry dispose of toxic waste for profit.
NyscofFri, May 2, 08 at 02:45 PM
there is absolutely no evidence that any child is, or ever was, fluoride deficient. Research recently put out by the Iowa Fluoride Study shows no relationship. A study of Australian children drinking fluoridated or non-fluoridated water showed no difference in decay. the only scientifically verifiable causation of tooth decay is poverty which is linked to poor diets and overall unhealthiness. Fluoride is neither a nutrient nor required for healthy teeth. Living a fluoride-free life does not lead to cavities. Eating a rotten diet leads to rotten teeth and no amount of fluoride will stop that. for more info http://www.FluorideAction.Net
NickieFri, May 2, 08 at 02:55 PM
FYI, you can buy fluoride from your pharmacist (over the counter) and administer a couple of drops into beverages yourself. It's tasteless, colourless and odorless.
I hope the last comment is not right, a deadly way to harm someone.
Fluoride in the tap variety helps strengthen enamel, prevent tooth decay
Catherine Griwkowsky, The Edmonton Journal
Bottled water is likely a factor in rising rates of tooth decay in preschoolers, says a new report from U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Dr. Randall Croutze, an Edmonton dentist, said more people are drinking bottled water that doesn't contain fluoride, which works to prevent cavities. Croutze recommended drinking tap water to prevent cavities.
"It's an extremely low dose of fluoride in the water and it's only beneficial for the strong development for enamel," Croutze said.
A glass of tap water is seen. Bottled water is likely a factor in rising rates of tooth decay in preschoolers, says a new report from U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Andreas Rentz/Getty Images
Between 1988 and 1994, 24 per cent in the two-to-five age group had cavities, compared to 28 per cent between 1999 to 2004.
Croutze said the data "absolutely" applies to Canada as he's seen a large increase in the number of cavities in young patients because of dietary habits.
"We've seen children, 18 months old, and they'll have rampant carries that decimated their teeth. They end up with stainless steel crowns and extractions," Croutze said. "It's becoming a bigger problem."
There are several ways sugar sneaks into our diet.
For example, pop and sugary juices are obvious culprits in tooth decay, but milk, unsweetened juice, dried fruits and bottled water may be just as harmful.
Younger children are at a greater risk of developing cavities because they have thinner enamel, poorer oral hygiene and tend to eat more sugar than adults.
Children under six shouldn't brush with fluoride because they cannot properly spit the toothpaste out. If they swallow large amounts of fluoride, it can be toxic. They also need a toothpaste with a weaker taste so they brush longer.
Croutze pointed to higher cavity-rates in Calgary compared to Edmonton. Edmonton fluoridated the water in 1967, whereas Calgary did not start until 1992.
Croutze said while the amount of sugar in food and drinks plays a factor, the bacterial growth depends mostly on the number of times the mouth is exposed to sugar or acid.
The study found tooth decay in six to 11-year-olds dropped from 25 per cent to about 21 per cent. There was a decrease to 59 per cent from 68 per cent in people aged 12 to 19.
reporter2@thejournal.canwest.com
Toothy Tips
Tips to prevent tooth decay in children under six:
- Limit the number of times the child is exposed to sugary foods and drinks
- Set a good example by brushing and flossing
- Before teeth come in, wipe the gums with a washcloth after feedings
- Brush with a non-fluoride toothpaste
- Help kids floss
- Get a flavour of toothpaste the child enjoys. Strong mint flavors almost burn the mouth
- Drink water with fluoride
- Children should have their teeth checked every six months
© The Edmonton Journal 2008
COMMENTS ON THIS STORYAdd Your CommentChristopher Fri, May 2, 08 at 11:20 AM
Yet ANOTHER reason not to drink bottled water! How did we ever get tricked into thinking that bottled water was a good idea?
sighFri, May 2, 08 at 11:29 AM
Fluoride is a toxin and should not be consumed, how about brushing your teeth at least twice a day.
TinaFri, May 2, 08 at 11:29 AM
I'm confused, no fluoride in kids toothpaste because if swallowed in large amounts it can be toxic. But DRINK water WITH fluoride? BIt of a contradiction, no?
mommy3Fri, May 2, 08 at 12:06 PM
As a CDA, I know the benefits of fluoride but on the other side of the coin there are the negatives. When you look at kids today and you see the white "spots" on their teeth....that is caused by fluoride in the water. It may be a benefit but what teenage girl wants to smile with white tye dyed teeth. There are the pros and cons to everything and this is just one.
jmbFri, May 2, 08 at 01:13 PM
I'm so tired of the inconsistencies I hear from dentists, dental websites, family doctors and new-child community health care workers about proper teech care for very young children. This article says no fluoride toothpaste for kids under six. May 2 year old child's dentist said she could should start using fluoride toothpaste at 18 months, her doctor said even earlier. Get your story straight health care 'professionals'.
Fluoride is a known poisonFri, May 2, 08 at 01:59 PM
What is this garbage? Fluoride is a known poison that affects the brain and does nothing to protect kids from cavities. Try feeding the kids less sugar.
Ban FluorideFri, May 2, 08 at 02:04 PM
Fluoride should be banned and anyone who has done their research knows this. Fluoride is a poisonous toxin that affects the brain. http://www.wholywater.com/fluoride.html "The Journal of the American Medical Association (1990-1992) has reported a greater incidence of hip fractures in fluoridated areas in the U.S. and Britain. TheNew England Journal of Medicine (1990) reported that fluoride treatment of osteoporosis patients resulted in higher hip fracture rates. The governmental National Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences (1990) has shown that fluoride causes cancer. Former promoters of fluoridation have since found that fluoridation does not reduce tooth decay (1987-1988). Scientist at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (1989-1993) have come out against fluoridation because they have confirmed that it does not reduce tooth decay and that there is clear evidence that fluoride causes cancer. The American Chemical Society published a 17-page cover story (1988) questioning the safety and effectiveness of fluoridation."
ianFri, May 2, 08 at 02:30 PM
Sodium Fluroide is a toxic waste which is deadly to humans and creates brain tumors in rats to the point of death. Why are we adding this chemical to our water when it is the topical application which has the most benefits?
Jim SchultzFri, May 2, 08 at 02:34 PM
It would be very interesting if you would mention one current study that has data showing ingested systemic fluoride is the primary or any benefit. The science shows the opposite ,that topical post eruptive is the major benefit and drinking fluoride provides little or most likely no benefit. You can read a list of 20 plus studies that prove the point at fluoridealert.org. Fluoride overdose in children is skyrocketing causing discolored brittle enamel in about half the children now when fluoridated. See Pizzo 2007 for specifics. A study by Burt 2007 disproves this foolish idea of bottled water causing cavities. The huge increase in cavities seen is in fluoridated inner cities long fluoridated and poor nutrition,lack of dental care and sippy cups and bottles of soda ,juice and milk. Dentists believe the fluoride myth and ignore over welming science so we suffer cumulative toxic exposure to fluoride which is more toxic then lead. Instead of just one source of fluoride most beverages, foods and dental care products mean we are over medicated even in non fluoridated cities. The article did get one thing right avoid fluoride toothpaste in children. It is the cause of much dental fluorosis of the very ugly type by swallowing too much. Watch the videos on the website by real life reasearchers who get the science right. Also the FDA has yet to approve any ingested fluoride product ever. They tested pure sodium fluoride then almost always use a different chemical directly from smokestack scrubbers for toxic waste at phosphate/uranium mines that has 20 plus toxic contaminates that they do not mention. It is really cheap and helps industry dispose of toxic waste for profit.
NyscofFri, May 2, 08 at 02:45 PM
there is absolutely no evidence that any child is, or ever was, fluoride deficient. Research recently put out by the Iowa Fluoride Study shows no relationship. A study of Australian children drinking fluoridated or non-fluoridated water showed no difference in decay. the only scientifically verifiable causation of tooth decay is poverty which is linked to poor diets and overall unhealthiness. Fluoride is neither a nutrient nor required for healthy teeth. Living a fluoride-free life does not lead to cavities. Eating a rotten diet leads to rotten teeth and no amount of fluoride will stop that. for more info http://www.FluorideAction.Net
NickieFri, May 2, 08 at 02:55 PM
FYI, you can buy fluoride from your pharmacist (over the counter) and administer a couple of drops into beverages yourself. It's tasteless, colourless and odorless.
I hope the last comment is not right, a deadly way to harm someone.
posted by Bill at
9:57 AM
1 Comments:
As mentioned in the article, fluoride is toxic... in large amounts.
Tina: In Edmonton the amount of fluoride is 0.8 parts per million (ppm). A typical toothpaste here would contain 1000 to 1100 ppm. In the UK that number is 1450.
That's quite a significant difference in concentration, no?
The studies I've looked at say fluoride is safe for ingestion up to 1 ppm, but probably not beyond that.
A question I have- do the spots occur on children who have been brushing in addition to drinking fluoridated water? I don't know many teenage girls would would rely only on water to keep their teeth entirely white.
jmb: The dentist I talked to said exactly what you said. Professionals change their recommendations as new evidence is found. In this case it's the fact kids under six can't spit properly.
Fluoride does affect the brain. It also protects against cavities. I agree we should reduce the exposure to sugar.
I have heard stories of places where the fluoride is much higher than water here that people's teeth turns brown. I certainly don't contest the point that there is a limit to the amount of fluoride that should be ingested, but consider this...
Fluoride occurs naturally in food, water and even in the air you breath. Should you stop breathing because the air contains fluoride?
Jim Schultz: As pointed out in the article poor dietary choices and exposure to pop, juice and milk contribute significantly.
I'm glad you agree children shouldn't swallow toothpaste.
Nysco: I can only speak to the difference in Calgary and Edmonton for cavity rates with fluoridated versus non-fluoridated water, as I have no read the unnamed Australian study, but here there has been a recorded difference in tooth decay.
Once again, it's true diet has a significant impact on cavities.
However! If, for example, drinking freshly squeezed orange juice and eating dried apricots counts as a "rotten diet" I'd rather risk cavities (so far I have none) than be malnourished.
I am of course always interested in recent, peer-reviewed studies that can prove me wrong.
Thank you for questioning.
Feel free to e-mail me at the above address.
By
CatherineGriwkowsky, at 15 May, 2008
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