The American Dental Association, CDC, American Medical Association, the Surgeon General, National Institute of Dental & Craniofacial Research, and the World Health Organization have all come out in support of fluoridation of our water supply. (http://www.ada.org/public/topics/fluoride/index.asp ) I support it as well. However, just because studies have shown that it decreases tooth decay and tooth loss and many people are in support of it does not mean we should not look at the other side of the issue. I will give a brief summary of those issues before I explain why I believe the benefits out way the potential negatives.  Like most things, too much of fluoride can be a bad thing. It can cause tooth mottling and can cause acute or chronic toxicity. (http://elkhorn.unl.edu/epublic/live/g1376/build/#target3) Children under 9 are the most vulnerable to issues because of over fluoride consumption and should have their levels of fluoride use monitored the most. (http://www.epa.gov/safewater/hfacts.html ) In the end, I think the overriding issue here is that dentists are extremely expensive. For people who do not have dental insurance, putting fluoride in the water is an egalitarian way to promote oral health across society regardless of income and access to dental care.  I believe this potential benefit outweighs any of the potential negative effects.