Abstract
Water fluoridation invalves the adjustment of the fluoride ion content of a domestic municipal water supply to the optimum physiologic concentration to provide maximum protection against dental caries and enhance the appearance of teeth, with the minimum risk of enamel fluorosis. Fluoridation has been established as the most efficient, effective, reliable, and inexpensive means for improving and maintaining oral health. Fluoride (fluorine) should be positioned as a nutrient essential for the formation of sound teeth and bones, just as calcium, phosphorus, and other elements obtained from food and water, prior to the introduction of water fluoridation. Fluoride (fluorine) has already been mentioned in the national standard of essential nutrients in the European Union and United States. Fluoride (fluorine) is expected to be referred to in the Japanese standard of essential nutrients, and water fluoridation will be introduced in Japanese communities.
