To the editor:
Two previous issues of the Pioneer prompt me to comment. On Sept. 2 a letter, “Area dentists make case for keeping fluoridation in Island Falls,” appeared on page 4B, opposite an article on page 5B, “Our Backyard: What kinds of chemicals do you use?” defining hazardous and toxic chemicals. The fluoride used in treating public water is a hazardous toxic waste from manufacturing.
One argument against its use has been that people should not be subjected to treatment with a toxic chemical without their knowledge and consent. European countries, except Spain, use no fluoride in water, primarily because the mass medication of people with a toxic substance without their consent is seen as a questionable practice.
Spending $3,600 by the town of Island Falls for fluoridation might seem worthwhile for a positive effect, but numerous studies have shown otherwise. In fact, negative effects have been found, including serious unwanted side effects on kidneys, bone, teeth, and perhaps even other organs, such as the thyroid. In 2006, the American Dental Association (ADA) issued a warning against using water containing fluorides to mix infant formula.
Many dentists continue to report facts about fluoride that have been proved to be fallacious, but they may come from the ADA’s Web site. More up-to-date information and two statements available for signing are at www.FluorideAlert.org.
Over 2,640 people, including 318 MDs, 387 nurses, and 257 dentists (DDS, DMD, DBDS) have signed the Professionals’ Statement online calling for an end to fluoridation. More than 21,900 people have signed the Online Message to Congress, which supports the Professionals’ Statement and asks for a Congressional hearing so that civil servants working in the Center for Disease Control, Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration can be questioned under oath. Personnel from these groups would be expected to explain why the CDC continues to promote the fluoridation of public water despite the health warnings in the National Research Council review published on March 22, 2006.
On Sept. 9, the Pioneer article, “Maine to get $840,000 for better access to dental care,” reported U,S, Sen. Susan Collins’ announcement of a federal grant “to help improve access … by strengthening the dental workforce in Maine’s rural and underserved communities.” The ADA’s PAC and individuals associated with the group donated $2.1 million to federal candidates and political parties during the 2008 election cycle; Sen. Susan Collins received $10,000.
Flossing and proper brushing of the teeth, with or without toothpaste, provide the best prevention of cavities. Diet helps, too.
Byrna Porter Weir
Rochester, N.Y.
