ABSTRACT
Fluoride is an ion of the element, fluorine and is found dissolved in natural waters, commonly in concentrations less than 1.0mgL1, and seldom outside the range from about 0.01mgL1 to 10.0mgL1. Fluoride is incorporated by humans into bone and tooth structure; public health attempts to add low concentrations (less than 1mgL1) of dissolved fluoride into drinking water to strengthen teeth and minimize cavities (dental caries) has been characterized by rancor and controversy. At fluoride concentrations of 2-4mgL1, mottling and otherwise aesthetically unappealing tooth discoloration may occur; at greater concentrations, fluoride poisoning, or fluorosis, can cause structural damage to teeth and bone.
