Why is it important to remove fluoride from drinking water in some areas?

Removing fluoride from drinking water is crucial in certain areas because excessive fluoride exposure can lead to dental and skeletal fluorosis. Dental fluorosis occurs during the years when teeth are developing, resulting in discoloration and damage to the enamel. Skeletal fluorosis is a more severe condition that can result from high levels of fluoride over long periods, leading to changes in the bones, including pain and increased brittleness.

In regions where the natural fluoride levels in water are high or where fluoridation practices have resulted in excessive fluoride concentrations, it becomes necessary to monitor and potentially reduce fluoride levels to protect public health. Ensuring that fluoride levels remain within safe limits is essential for preventing these adverse health effects, making this the most valid reason for the removal of fluoride in specific areas.

While fluoride does play a role in promoting dental health at safe levels, its importance diminishes significantly when concentrations become harmful. Additionally, fluoride does not contribute to water hardness, nor does it influence algae growth, which are reasons that generally do not support the removal of fluoride from drinking water systems.