What is Fluoride primarily used for in water treatment?

Fluoride is primarily used in water treatment to promote strong teeth and oral health. Its presence in drinking water helps reduce the incidence of dental caries (cavities) by making teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth. This results from fluoride ions either replacing hydroxyl ions in the hydroxyapatite mineral of the tooth enamel or forming a new mineral called fluoroapatite, which is more resistant to demineralization.

While some people may believe that fluoride enhances flavor or has a role in disinfecting water, neither of these is a primary application. Fluoride does not serve as a disinfectant and is not used for removing sediments; its main focus is on dental health. Thus, its addition to water supplies is a public health measure aimed at improving oral hygiene in communities.