Fluoride update

Dr. Hardy Limeback, D.D.S., Ph.D., Head of Preventive Dentistry at the University of Toronto and a spokesperson for the Canadian Dental Association for over 12 years, has announced that he no longer supports fluoridation of drinking water. Limeback's opposition to fluoridation came about after he reviewed the scientific literature and concluded that there is very little, if any, dental benefit from swallowing fluoride. In addition, Limeback says, fluoride can adversely affect bones and teeth.

Dr. Limeback's conclusions are backed by a growing number of professional critics of fluoridation in the fields of medicine, dentistry, and science. A major concern of Dr. Limeback and most opponents of fluoridation is that due to fluoridation of water, foods, beverages, supplements, medications, toothpastes, rinses, fertilizers, and more, excessive fluoride intake is easily reached.

Fluoridation advocates concede that dental fluorosis (white, yellow, or brown stains or pitting of teeth of youngsters) is increasing but label it "cosmetic." Dr. Limeback counters, "Since when is a cosmetic problem not a problem when the patient must seek dental treatment to fix it? More money is spent treating dental fluorosis than would have been saved even if fluoridation did reduce decay in children.

"In my opinion, there is no question that the risks now far outweigh the benefits. Fluoride accumulates in the bones, [and] there hasn't been a single study to show that exposure over a lifetime is safe."

Paul Beeber, President of the New York State Coalition Opposed to Fluoridation, stated, "Dr. Limeback has done the public a great service. Those who promote fluoridation are placing people at risk of hip fractures and other harmful effects." Risk groups include those with kidney impairment, people who drink a lot of water, and others.