To the Editor:
As the Damariscotta Health Officer I would like to respond to some concerns that have been raised regarding the addition of fluoride to our town water.
When provided in the correct concentration, fluoride provides dramatic benefits for dental health to community members of all ages with no evidence of significant health risk. It is true that some children who consume water treated with fluoride will develop some white spots on the teeth known as fluorosis. This is a purely cosmetic condition and is generally very mild.
As a practicing family physician, every day I see the impact of tooth decay and gum disease on the overall health of my patients. The addition of fluoride to community water supplies is endorsed by the American Medical Association, the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Family Physicians and the CDC.
In addition to health benefits, adding fluoride to our water offers financial benefits. The CDC estimates that every $1 invested in community water fluoridation saves $38 in future dental treatment. As is the case with many health conditions, the Internet offers much inaccurate information regarding fluoride. If you are interested in learning more about the issues related to fluoride, I would direct you to the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/fluoridation/faqs.htm.
Continuing the addition of fluoride to our town water would be a wise decision for the health of our community.
Tim Goltz, MD, Health Officer, Damariscotta
