Flourosis and Flouride Removal: Source of Fluorosis

Food and drinking water typically contain small amounts of fluorides. They occur in the environment both naturally and as a result of human activities. Fluoride can enter the body through various sources.

Drinking Water & Food
In drinking water, Fluorides can be either naturally present due to the specific geological environment from which the water is obtained or can be artificially added for the prevention of dental caries.

Virtually all foodstuffs contain at least some traces of Fluoride. Elevated levels are present in fish and in tea leaves, which are particularly rich in fluoride. The level of fluoride in foods is significantly affected by the fluoride content of the water used in food preparation or processing.

Dental Products
Dental products such as toothpaste, mouthwash and Fluoride supplements have been identified as significant sources of fluoride. Toothpastes for adults that are commercially available generally contain fluoride at concentrations ranging from 1000 to 1500 µg/g, whereas those designed for children contain 250 to 500 µg/g. The concentration of fluoride in mouth rinses varies with the recommended frequency of use from 230 to 1000 mg/litre.

Industries
Fluoride dust and fumes from industries using fluoride containing salt and/or hydrofluoric acid is also a source through which Fluoride can enter the body.