Does water fluoridation cause a decrease in bone health? No.
Current research indicates that, in large enough doses, fluoride stimulates the formation of bone, increases bone formation earlier, and increases spinal bone density. Additional research is necessary to determine if a cause and effect relationship exists between fluoride in drinking water and bone health (Phipps, 1995). A study by Pak has shown that an experimental treatment with sodium fluoride, one of the types of fluoride chemicals added to drinking water, and calcium citrate can stimulate mineral buildup and prevent new fractures in osteoporotic bones of the spinal column (Henriksen, 1994).
Henriksen, 0. 1994. Boning up: new ways to prevent fractures in older Americans. Nat. Ctr. Res. May, June, (1 8) 3:4-7.
Phipps, K. 1995. Fluoride in bone health. J. Pub. Hlth. Dent. 55(5):53-56.
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