We have heard a lot of back and forth about the value of adding fluoride to the community’s water supply in the weeks leading up to the referendum vote on the issue in Newcastle and Damariscotta, Nov. 8
No doubt we will hear plenty more as the pre-vote lobbying reaches a crescendo in the coming days.
Fortunately, this is an argument based on facts. However, there are apparently enough facts available in enough places to build a credible case on either side of the issue.
It says something that the local medical community is apparently unanimous in their support for added fluoride in the community water supply. They say the benefits speak for themselves and they have a 40-year track record backing them up.
The benefits of their collective expertise should be given appropriate weight.
However, we think it would be a mistake to just blindly take their word for it and dismiss out of hand the concerns raised by those who brought the issue to the fore.
Fluoride opponents may not have as many doctors or dentists among their ranks but medical degrees are not required to do research or to draw an informed conclusion.
What research they have done and the evidence they do cite does indicate cause for concern.
As we do before every vote, we encourage every voter to do their own research and make up their own mind. Don’t just take the word of your local doctor or dentist or anti- fluoride advocate. They already have their opinion.
The bottom line is while the sides may disagree on the methods, they agree on the end goal, which is protecting the public’s health.
