If there is a calcium deficiency, lead will be absorbed by the body and deposited in the teeth and bones. This may account for the higher levels of lead in children who have a higher incidence of cavities. Fluorine decreases chances of dental caries and strengthen bones, though too much can discolor teeth. This may in part be due to the fact that when hard water is fluoridated, the fluoride bonds with magnesium in the blood, forming insoluble magnesium fluoride. Although both animal and human epidemiology studies have been conducted with fluoride, they have not been extensive enough to arrive conclusively at whether or not fluoride is a carcinogen.
Water is the number one source of fluoride, and toothpaste is the second.
A copy of Dr. Holderby's report is available from Natural Food Associates, Atlanta, TX 75551.