Many towns in the United States decree that sodium fluoride is to be added to the municipal water supply. It helps prevent tooth decay. Sodium fluoride was first added to municipal drinking water in 1945. There is still controversy about the health impact of sodium fluoride in drinking water, notes the American Cancer Society. A variety of side effects may occur from ingesting sodium fluoride. Talk to your dentist or doctor about sodium fluoride to find out the benefits and risks of this compound.
Damage & Darkening of Teeth
Sodium fluoride in levels higher than 2.0 mg per liter in drinking water often causes tooth enamel to darken in color, notes the Colorado State University Extension. This also causes fluorosis, a dental disorder that involves damage to the enamel of teeth. The rate of development of fluorosis depends on how much sodium fluoride is in the water. Also, some children swallow toothpaste. That often hastens the development of fluorosis.
Overdose
An overdose can occur if too much sodium fluoride is ingested. Overdose symptoms may include headache, convulsions, stomach pain, a taste of salt or soap, a slow or irregular heartbeat, heart attack or vomiting. The daily intake advised for sodium fluoride by MayoClinic.com is 0.1 to 1.5 mg from birth to age 3, 1 to 2.5 mg for ages 4 to 6, 1.5 to 2.5 mg for ages 7 to 10, and 1.5 to 4 mg for teenagers and adults.
Osteosarcoma
Sodium fluoride in drinking water can possibly prompt development of osteosarcoma, notes the American Cancer Society. Osteosarcoma is a cancer that starts in the bones. This disorder occurs when fluoride gathers in the areas of bones where growth is occurring. Sodium fluoride in the water accelerates cell growth in the growth plates and increases development of cancerous cells. More studies are needed to fully explore this issue. Osteosarcoma is quite rare. This disease is diagnosed in about 400 children and teens yearly.
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