Important Information Regarding The Flint Water Crisis
The Genesee District Dental Society is here to provide support and information for the community and dental practitioners. In light of the recent water crisis in Flint, we have information to address commonly asked questions relating to lead in the water supply, and the lack of Fluoride in bottled water.
1. Our dental office operates with a closed system, which means we use distilled bottled water.
2. The water from our drill, ultrasonic scaler, air water syringe, and other equipment is distilled water.
3. Our sterilizers require distilled water, and require regular testing for bacterial content.
4. Dental unit waterlines require regular testing.
5. If you are drinking bottled water that is not fluoridated, then a fluoride varnish, fluoride rinse, or fluoride supplement can help provide valuable protection for your teeth.
6. We recommend brushing twice a day fluoride toothpaste. If you are using a toothbrush that may have been exposed to the municipal water, then we recommend replacing it.
7. There is no credible link between lead and fluoride corrosion, or increased lead intake. For factual information, please visit the website of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) at www.cdc.gov
8. Flint’s water supply was previously received from Detroit. Detroit’s water has been fluoridated since the early 1960’s.
9. Studies that claim to show a link between fluoride and lead intake were conducted under exposure rates more than 142 times that of the levels of fluoride that are used the United States.
It is important to note that the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) supports community water fluoridation as a scientifically proven public health benefit to help prevent tooth decay. Some studies have shown a link between increased lead intake and increased incidence of dental caries, as well as increased incidence of periodontal disease in adults. It is important for
people to find, and maintain, a dental home. The complete list of Genesee District Dental Society member dentists can be found on our website.
When searching for factual information on health concerns and drinking water, the Michigan Dental Association recommends consumers credible sources such as:
American Academy of Pediatrics- www.aap.org
Centers for Disease Control- www.cdc.gov
Campaign for Dental Health- www.ilikemyteeth.org
Environmental Protection Agency- www.epa.gov
NSF international- www.nsf.org
Mott Children’s Health Clinic is sending dental hygienist’s into the elementary schools in Flint to administer fluoride rinses to children enrolled in summer school. In the fall, the fluoride rinse program will extended to children enrolled in the Head Start Program.