Bottled Water Can Increase Risks for Tooth Decay

Posted by Dr. John Patterson 11/14/2011

It is very difficult to spend an entire day in the public arena and not see people toting a bottle of water with them. This factor was not true twenty years ago, but now the average American spends over $250.00 annually on clean bottled drinking water. What you may not be aware of as a consumer, is that bottled water can increase risks for dental decay.

The reasoning behind this is because most bottled water eliminates fluoride, a significant factor in water that helps prevent tooth decay. Dr. Patterson of Mesa, AZ is all too aware of the risks that arise when children and adults ignore the use of fluoride as a decay preventative. Your dentist can provide you with fluoride gel or rinse that you can add to your daily oral care program.

Optimal levels of fluoride (0.7-1.2 ppm) are rarely identified in bottled water or water that has been treated by specific filtering systems. That’s right! Your water treatment system at home most likely is removing the essential fluoride needed to prevent tooth decay.
There are several reasons why people drink bottled water. Some choose bottled water over tap water simply because of taste and preference. There is a reason for bottled water that cannot be ignored. If your drinking water is unsafe for consumption, you may have no other alternative.

The FDA does not require bottling companies to list the percentage of fluoride included in their products. However, it does require that fluoride additives be listed if they exist. If you are in doubt, contact your bottled water company and ask them about it.

If you are a regular consumer of filtered water and unaware that bottled water can increase risks for tooth decay, you may need to contact Dr. Patterson at M&M Dental in Mesa, AZ for a check-up. If you are concerned, please feel free to give us a call and make an appointment today! (480) 844-5095.