Q: I drink bottled water, am I missing out on the benefits of fluoride?
A: Research has shown that fluoride reduces cavities in both children and adults. It also helps repair the early stages of tooth decay.
If bottled water is your main source of drinking water, you could be missing the decay-preventive benefits of fluoride. The majority of bottled waters on the market do not contain optimal levels (0.7-1.2 ppm) of fluoride.
However, the IBWA (International Bottle Water Association) says that there are more than 20 brands of bottled water with added fluoride available to consumers today. When fluoride is added to bottle water, the FDA requires that the term fluoridated, fluoride added, or with added fluoride be used on the label.
If you feel as though you are missing out on the benefits of fluoride, speak with your dentist. There are many fluoride supplements available, which can be recommended.
So, the next time you drink bottled water, look to see if your favorite brand contains fluoride.