Table of Contents
Fluoride (F) and Drinking Water
A technical paper by Olympian Water Testing specialists
Fluoride and Drinking Water
Fluoride is a naturally occurring chemical at the surface of the planet released from rock into water, air and soils [1]. All water has fluoride in it, but different doses are available everywhere. There are some natural springs and groundwater that are much more fluoride rich than others [2]. The bulk of water fluoride is insufficient to decay the teeth.
When a person ingests sugary foods, the bacteria in the mouth expel acid-reducing minerals from the tooth enamel, which weakens it and makes tooth decay more likely. Human teeth are defended against decay with fluoride that restores and reinforces enamel [1, 2]. Making drinking water contain as much fluoride as needed is "fluoridation," but too much fluoride in drinking water increases the chances of dental fluorosis and skeletal fluorosis [1], so frequent water testing and water fluoride adjustment is recommended.
This site is going to educate you on Fluoride contamination of water, its impact on your health, what you can do to avoid it, how to remove it from water and where to go for help.
How do excessive fluorides contaminate drinking water?
Fluoride contamination in drinking water is still a problem across the world due to tooth decay and degenerated bones people suffer from [3], particularly in the US where most of the drinking water comes from boreholes (as they are vulnerable to fluoride contamination).
Geogenic or human causes of fluoride contamination of groundwater are at play.
Anthropogenic sources
The leading anthropogenic causes of fluoride contamination in water supply are coal combustion, phosphate fertiliser and industry. Aluminum smelting, phosphate fertiliser, glass, coal-fired thermal and brick production discharge fluoride into the environment. Using fluoride-water irrigation also adds more fluoride to groundwater [4]. Applied on farmland, superphosphate fertiliser adds 0.34 mg/l of fluoride. Also, the residual clay from brick-making has a high level of fluorides, and groundwater fluoridation is also higher near brick-making sites [5].
Geogenic source
Leaching and dissolved fluoride-bearing minerals, weathering, rock-water interface, ion exchange, evaporation, and precipitation of calcite are the main geogenic sources of fluoride in water. Water over-pumping is known to raise fluoride in groundwater because mineralized groundwater from deep deposits reacts with shallow water [6]. We know that hydrothermal fluids also add fluoride and other elements like lithium and boron [7].
Mineral Extraction
Mining waters tend to be high in fluoride since mineral mining leaches fluoride from tailings stockpiles and ores. A Punjabi study measuring groundwater fluoride concentrations discovered that groundwater fluoride concentrations in groundwater were more (up to 10 mg/L) than the World health organisation (WHO) recommended threshold of 1.5 mg/L, and shallow groundwater is fluoridated as well as deep groundwater [4].
Health Effects
By drinking water laden with fluoride ions in excess, your health and that of your family is at risk. Water with fluoride at levels above 1.5 mg/L also contributes to fluoride health problems among 200 million global citizens, mostly associated with dental caries and fluorosis [8]. Dental caries is caused by fluoride concentration less than 0.5 mg/L and dental and skeletal fluorosis respectively by fluoride concentration above 1.5 mg/L and 4.0 mg/L [8, 9].
Dental Fluorosis
Dental fluorosis: Fluorosis affects the enamel and it occurs mainly in children aged 8 years and below who consume fluoride containing drinks, and whose permanent teeth are still growing [10].
Dental fluorosis rates in US fluoridated regions are 8%-51 per cent, and non-fluoridated regions are 3-4 per cent-26 percent [11]. The overuse of fluoride in drinking water wears away the enamel hood. Fluorosis of the teeth — occurs when the enamel becomes undermineralized from the fluoride that has been consumed too often and develops yellow-brown to black stains. Dental fluorosis depends on the amount of fluoride used, age of the victim, and time period. Dental fluorosis Damages – teeth are intrinsically stained, decayed, and physical damage to the teeth [12].
Skeletal Fluorosis
Scleral fluorosis is not present before the disease is advanced (most commonly in children and adults) and is a by-product of long-term exposure of children and adults to fluoride-laden water [13]. Skeletal fluorosis: fluoride minerals accumulated in the knee, neck, pelvic joints and shoulder bones to cause the following symptoms [13, 14]:
Sporadic back pain and stiffness
Arthritis and osteoporosis
Tingling, burning, stinging in the hands and feet.
Weak muscles, bones, and ligaments
Toxic fluoride-contaminated groundwater is also a common source of rare bone osteosarcoma (bone cancer), deformities of the bones, muscle disorders and central nervous system problems from long-term consumption and drinking. High levels of fluoride in water were also strongly associated with increased osteosarcoma [15], deformity of the bones, atrophy of the muscles [16] and lower levels of the neurotransmitter plumate, thus impairing memory and learning [17].
Other Health Problems
Other diseases caused by high fluoride levels are:
Excessive thirst and headache
Low hemoglobin and abnormal red blood cells.
Neurological manifestations, anxiety, depression
Urinary tract malfunctioning
Nausea
Gastrointestinal problems
Reduced immunity
Reproductive problems
How do you know your drinking water has a high fluoride level?
Water with fluoride tastes very different from well water that is low (or admirable) in fluoride.
Fluoridated water, ADA states, ‘looks and feels like any water because fluoride has no odour, taste or color’ [11]. Hence you’ll need a water test to know if your drinking water has the acceptable fluoride.
Trying my Drinking Water for Fluoride Debris.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends fluoride tests for water since most water in areas like Illinois are more fluoridated [18]. EPA, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) gave voluntary fluoride thresholds that could not be enforced. The maximum allowed for bottled and tap water, for instance, is EPA and FDA 0.7 mg/L [19].
Test water for fluoride using 1 ml zirconium xylenol orange reagent and the water sample. It will be yellow from pink if the water is high in fluoride. It’s possible to color code the colors generated to calculate fluoride content.
How To Go About It If Water Has A Lot Of Fluoride?
You should do this if your water supply contains higher levels of fluoride. Extreme fluoride exposures can lead to dental or skeletal fluorosis, and you have to do something about it.
If your water has fluoride higher than the WHO recommended level of 1.5 mg/L, take alternative water.
How to Decontaminate Fluoride in Water
It is advisable to take action if your drinking water has higher fluoride levels than the recommended to avoid the negative implications. Over 70 years ago, the ADA recommended the addition of fluoride to America’s public water supply [20]. However, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, decontamination is necessary when the fluoride levels are over 0.7 mg/L to decrease the risk of tooth decay and dental fluorosis [19].
Reverse Osmosis
Reverse osmosis is a simple and commonly used filtration system that can remove 85% to 92% fluoride from water. The reverse osmosis technology depends on the water tap that uses pressure to push water through filtration. After the water enters through the filter, it passes through a semipermeable membrane and additional filters. The reverse osmosis process allows the fluoride contaminants found in the water to be flushed down the drain and also removes other components from your drinking water, such as [21]:
- Lead
- Pesticides,
- Nitrates and sulfates
- Chlorine and chloramine
- Detergents
Reverse osmosis is widely used because it is a cost-effective, safe, and easy-to-maintain and operates water filtration system. A new reverse osmosis system costs less than $280, making it affordable for most US households and a household of four people can use a single system.
Electrocoagulation
This is the second most used technology to decontaminate drinking water containing fluoride and other impurities. Direct electric current is applied to sacrificial electrodes in an aqueous solution, effectively removing the impurities from the water by electrolysis [22]. The electrocoagulation process effectively reduces fluoride and arsenic concentrations below 1.5 mg/l and 10μg/l, respectively [23].
What Factors Should You Consider Before Choosing a Water Filtration System?
Each water treatment technique has unique benefits and drawbacks. Several factors should be considered when choosing the appropriateness of the water filter for fluoride decontamination.
Before selecting a filtration system, you must ensure you purchase the right system that suits your needs by assessing the factors below:
Water quality
A water treatment system is obsolete if you don’t know the fluoride levels in your water supply. Therefore, first have your water tested and the system installed based on the results. An expensive filtration system may be is unnecessary if fluoride levels in your drinking water are below the ADA’s recommendations.
Once you have established the type of impurities to decontaminate, the next phase is to compare water purification systems in the market.
Maintenance of the System
Some water treatment systems for fluoride can be more demanding, whereas others are cheap and less costly to maintain. A reverse osmosis filtration system has low maintenance requirements. Once installed, a reverse osmosis system’s operation and maintenance costs are between $50 and $100 annually [24]. Also, there is a likelihood that water bills will be higher because the tap water pushes pressured water through the filter during the osmosis process.
Know the type of fluoride in your drinking water
A water testing laboratory measures the level and type of fluoride in your water. Use professional experts only. A reliable water testing laboratory employs advanced fluoride testing methods explained to ensure accurate results. These methods involve collecting water samples and analyzing them using sophisticated equipment that can detect even trace amounts of fluoride. By understanding the specific fluoride levels in your water, you can make informed decisions regarding your health and water consumption. These professionals use advanced techniques to ensure accurate results, helping you understand whether your water meets safety standards. Fluoride testing in public health is essential for preventing dental and skeletal issues caused by excessive or insufficient fluoride levels. Regular testing allows communities to maintain optimal fluoride concentrations for overall well-being.
Installation & Operational Costs of the System
Due to their complexity, most sophisticated water treatment systems cost more than those less sophisticated to install and operate.
It would be best to consider after-costs when selecting a filtration system. Then it may be wise to choose an affordable system with lower operations and installation costs.
Regardless of the type of water filtration system you choose and install, you will always change the filters occasionally. Therefore, depending on your needs and financial capabilities, identify the most cost-effective water filtration system for decontaminating fluoride before installation begins.
Compatibility of the Filtration System with Your Home
Most of the water filtration systems in the market are compatible with the already available faucets, sinks, taps, and plumbing equipment. Consult a water treatment professional to determine if the system of your choice is compatible with your home.
FAQ
Currently, there is much misinformation about fluoride and water contamination. Here are factual, science-based answers to some of the questions you may have.
What is fluoride, and how does water get contaminated?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral released from sedimentary rocks into the air, soil, and water. All water has some fluoride levels, but not enough to cause tooth decay.
Fluoride is, in some instances, added to drinking water by public health authorities to decrease teeth cavities [8]. Institutions must seek permission from local authorities because adding extra fluoride to drinking water may lead to excess exposing people to adverse effects. The decision to fluoridate water supplies is often based on extensive research that evaluates the benefits against potential risks. Ongoing studies assess the impact of fluoride on health, including its effectiveness in cavity prevention and any possible links to other health issues. Public health officials must balance these findings to ensure that the community receives the protective advantages of fluoride while minimizing any potential harm.
How much fluoride is recommended?
According to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), the maximum fluoride levels that prevent tooth decay are 0.7 milligrams (mg) or 0.7 ppm in every liter of water [19].
The figure was revised to a lower limit of 0.7 from 1 ppm in 2015 to help promote public health.
What does the WHO say about fluoride levels?
The WHO states that long-term exposure to drinking water with more than 1.5 ppm fluoride causes health problems, including tooth decay and weak bones [4].
Is fluoride harmful?
Fluoride is not harmful, but excess amounts can negatively affect the human body. Excess fluoride ions can cause bone damage, dental fluorosis, skeletal fluorosis, chronicle issues, muscular damage, osteoporosis, and arthritis [3].
What are the side effects of fluoride?
Potential side effects of drinking water with excessive fluoride include [3]:
- Bone problems
- Discoloration of teeth – yellowed or browned teeth
- Damage and pain to the joints and bones
- Hardened and less elastic bones increase the risk of fractures.
Does the water boiling process remove fluoride?
Water boiling is effective when removing chlorine but will not help with excessive fluoride levels. Boiling water effectively kills microorganisms such as protozoans, viruses, or bacteria that cause disease. However, boiling water will increase the fluoride concentration.
Can I remove excessive fluoride from drinking water?
Yes, you can remove fluoride as part of the water purification process. A reverse osmosis filtration system is the commonly used approach for removing excessive fluoride from drinking water. This filtration process removes 85-92% of fluoride levels from water. Reverse osmosis technology is a simple solution that utilizes household water pressure when pushing tap water through the filtration process [21].
What are the benefits of installing a Reserve Osmosis system?
– A reverse osmosis filtration system produces clean, safe, healthy, and great-tasting water. The system is easy to install and requires no electricity.
– Reverse osmosis system saves money for filtration by preventing you from paying for water delivery services and healthcare bills due to health issues
- A reverse osmosis filtration system is fully automated.
- A reverse osmosis filtration system can also help remove other water pollutants and impurities, including sulfates, nitrates, and mercury.
What factors should be considered before buying a water filter?
First, you should know how to install the filter and the contaminants in your water. Also, consider the compatibility of the water filtration system with your office or home.
It would be best if you also considered the maintenance costs of a filter system.
Water testing
Water is contaminated daily from the source, on the way and in your own structure and to avoid risk of adverse health effects, you need to have it tested. Use a regulated water testing laboratory service. Regular testing can help identify harmful contaminants such as bacteria, heavy metals, and chemicals that may compromise the safety of your water supply. By utilizing Olympian water testing services, you can ensure that your water meets health and safety standards. This proactive approach not only protects your health but also contributes to the overall wellbeing of your community.
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