EXTRA LETTERS: Readers speak out about fluoridation

<p class="bold allcaps">Fluoride is a dangerous chemical</p> <p>EDITOR: Your editorial suggests that fluoridating our water supply is the magic bullet to prevent cavities in children (“Confronting county crisis of oral health,” Sunday). </p><p>Look at the facts about fluoride: It is one of the most toxic chemicals known to man. Studies show that it disrupts the immune system, causes genetic damage and neurological disorders, increases the risk of cancer and Alzheimer's disease and causes damage to the nervous system.</p><p>It has been banned in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Austria, France and the Netherlands.</p><p>Fluoride is a toxic by-product of aluminum manufacturing and was propagandized in the 1930s as a tooth strengthener. The manufacturers were looking for a way to dispose of their toxic waste by-products.</p><p>It would be an irresponsible, horrible decision to fluoridate our water supply. Better nutrition prevents dental caries, not making the public ingest a toxic chemical that compromises our health. </p><p>Still think it's harmless? Just read the label on fluoridated toothpaste: “Warnings: keep out of reach of children under 6 years of age. If more than used for brushing is accidentally swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.”</p><p>TRICIA HOFFMAN</p><p><i>Sebastopol</i></p><h3>There's more to oral health</h3> <p>EDITOR: As a community resident concerned about dental health and a board member of the PDI Surgery Center in Windsor, I would like to comment on Sunday's editorial about fluoridation. I agree that fluoridation is a valuable tool in prevention of cavities, but other factors are also important, such as a healthy diet, especially limiting sugar intake, and proper brushing and flossing.</p><p>PDI has seen more than 8,000 young patients who have such severe decay they must have an anesthetic for treatment. Even though there is follow-up hygiene information for parents and patients, it is not always followed. It is important to note that fluoridating is only one tool available for prevention and that other measures must also be taken.</p><p>CONNIE CODDING</p><p><i>Santa Rosa</i></p><h3>What about personal responsibility?</h3> <p>EDITOR: What's next, toothpaste in the water? And let's add Vitamin D for people who don't want to go outdoors and exercise. Don't we already have enough “stuff” in our water? I hear that using a toothbrush and dental floss reduces cavities — without raising intelligent people's water bills. Personal responsibility, what a concept.</p><p>JEFF MROWKA</p><p><i>Santa Rosa</i></p>