Environmental Systems Engineering Paper

Water Fluoridation

Term project by Chad M. Kehoe

Introduction:

Fluoride is a naturally occurring compound. It is found in nearly all soils, plants, animals, and water supplies. Fluoride, in small quantities, is considered essential for the proper development of healthy teeth and bones. For this reason a majority of community water supply systems add fluoride to there water systems. Water fluoridation began in the mid 1940's and with some objections, continues today. This report will cover the basics of water fluoridation. It includes safety standards established and why, the application of fluoride to drinking water, fluoride regulation, the health effects of excessive fluoride in the diet, and the results of studies conducted on fluoridation.

Topics

References:

(1) Pontius, Frederick W. "Fluoride Regulation and Water Fluoridation", American Water Works Association Journal v. 83 (Nov. '91) p.20+ (2) Hamilton, Mark, R.S., M.P.H. "Water Fluoridation: A Risk Assessment Perspective" Journal of Environmental Health v. 54 (May/June '92) p.27-32 (3) "Fluoridation Effects on Aquatic Life" Public Works v. 122 (Feb. '91) p.97-98 (4) Hammer, Mark J. Water and Wastewater Technology 2nd 1986 by Prentice Hall Career & Technology p. 244, 271-273 (5) Esler, John k. & Smith, Phyl Notes Provided in Water Supply and Sewerage on "Water Fluoridation", Fall 1994, RPI