Fluoridation Story Essentials, 1939 to 2025

Abstract The history of the use of industrial fluoride compounds infused into drinking water is briefly summarized. The lack of oversight by Federal regulatory agencies conflicts with its recommendation by the Oral Health Division of the Centers for Disease Control. The chemistry of fluorides is discussed along with the toxic effects of fluoride ingestion. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has never approved fluoride for ingestion and has instead ruled that it is unsafe to add to foods and prohibits the sale of fluoride compounds intended for ingestion by pregnant women. Legal issues are introduced. The appearance of severely fluorotic and normal leg bones is shown.