Fluoride works in a number of ways. It works on teeth as they develop and more importantly on teeth that are in the mouth. It bonds with the tooth enamel and the surfaces of the teeth, making them more resistant to decay. It can interfere with the growth of cavity-causing bacteria on the teeth. It also helps to repair the earliest stages of tooth decay, those visible only under the microscope.
Water fluoridation is a low-cost and safe way to improve dental health for people of all ages.
The sound, strong teeth children develop by using fluoridated water last throughout adult life. As adults they will have less decayed, missing or filled teeth. Adults drinking fluoridated water can also expect to have less decay. The safety of community water fluoridation has been studied more thoroughly than any other public health measure during the past 50 years. Since the 1940's hundreds of carefully conducted scientific studies have shown that the use of fluoride at the levels recommended for optimal dental health has no harmful effects.