The Potential Impact of Salem’s Unfluoridated Water on Dental Health
While we love New Hampshire and Salem in particular, as a dental practice there is something that’s always had us concerned. Less than half of New Hampshire’s tap water is fluoridated and the water in Salem, NH is no exception. In fact, New Hampshire ranks 44th in the country for water fluoridation while across the state border the water in Haverhill is fluoridated and Massachusetts is ranked 31st for fluoridation.
Time and again, the research has shown that fluoridated water has dental benefits in terms of helping reduce cavities. When Juneau, Alaska decided to stop fluoridating their water they noticed the effects of not having fluoride first-hand with an increase in cavities reported.
The issue of fluoridation is a complex one with arguments for both sides, but there’s no denying the science behind the impact fluoride has on the prevention of dental cavities. At the same time there are people’s personal freedoms to consider if they prefer not having the water fluoridated. This is true especially in a state like New Hampshire that’s always been proud of its emphasis on personal freedom. At the end of the day there are no easy answers to this question.
If you have concerns about the lack of fluoride in the drinking water be sure to bring it up during your next dental visit so that Dr. Mathew can offer you advice on how to deal with the lack of fluoride based on your specific situation.