Fluoride Is Introduced into the U.S. Water Supply
At a glance:
- Series: Great Events from History II: Ecology and the Environment Series
- Categories: Science, Medicine, Health, Environmental Issues
- Subcategories: Biology, Biologists, Ecology, Environment, Conservation
- Curriculum: American History 1901-1950
- Geographical Location: Michigan
- Date: January 25, 1945
Article abstract: Fluoride was introduced into a U.S. water-supply system for the first time in an attempt to reduce tooth decay.
Summary of Event
Fluoride is the water-soluble, ionic form of the element fluorine. It is present in most water supplies at low levels, generally less than 0.2 parts per million (ppm), and nearly all food contains traces of fluoride. On January 25, 1945, W. L. Harris, chief chemist of the city of Grand Rapids, supervised the first addition of fluoride to a water-supply system in the United States. Proponents of fluoridation...
[The entire page is 2307 words long]
Join eNotes
Over 3,500 study guides, question and answer forums, literature criticism, reference content, and much more!
