Fluoride is one of the most effective ways to prevent tooth decay. Fluoride is a mineral found naturally in almost all foods and water supplies, such as rivers, lakes, wells and even oceans. Fluorine is the 13th most abundant element in the world and constitutes 0.08% of the Earth's crust (Awofeso an Peckham 2014). After teeth erupt, fluoride helps remineralize weakened tooth enamel and reverse early signs of tooth decay. More than 70 years of scientific research has consistently demonstrated that an optimal level of fluoride in community water is safe and effective in preventing tooth decay by at least 25% in children and adults (ADA). Water fluoridation reaches everyone in the community and has many benefits. Water fluoridation is also very inexpensive and effective. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Community water fluoridation is like drinking milk fortified with vitamin D or eating bread and cereal fortified with folic acid. Before water fluoridation, children had about three times more cavities. Because of the important role it has played in reducing tooth decay, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has proclaimed community water fluoridation as one of the Ten Great Public Health Achievements of the 20th Century (ADA ). Today, nearly 75 percent of the U.S. population is served by fluoridated community drinking water systems. Researchers have shown that there are several ways in which fluoride exerts its rot-preventing effects. This makes the tooth structure stronger, making the teeth more resistant to acid attack. Acid forms when bacteria in plaque break down sugars and carbohydrates from food. Multiple acid attacks pull out the tooth, causing cavities. Fluoride is necessary for ideal oral health for all age groups. Fluoride also works to repair areas where acid attacks have already begun. The remineralizing effect of fluoride is important because it reverses the early process of decay and creates a more decay-resistant tooth surface. The most effective way to treat a community with fluoride is water fluoridation. Fluoridation protection reaches individuals at home, at work and at school simply by drinking water. Water fluoridation is supported by organizers such as the American Dental Association, the American Medical Association and the World Health Organization. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Test Community Fluoride Levels Water is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to protect public health. Too high fluoride levels in water can cause health problems. This is why the EPA set the standard for water fluoridation. The Safe Drinking Water Act was passed by Congress in 1974. The EPA is required by law to assess the level of contaminants at which drinking water will be safe and will not cause adverse health effects..