From our friends at the American Dental Association:
Everyone's heard of fluoride but what exactly is it? And how does it work to prevent cavities? Dr. Jane Gillette of the American Dental Association takes a look at the science inside your mouth. Find more information about fluoride by visiting http://www.ada.org/fluoride.
Fluoride in Water is Safe and It Works
More than 70 years of scientific research has consistently shown that an optimal level of fluoride in community water is safe and effective in preventing tooth decay by at least 25% in both children and adults. Simply by drinking water, Americans can benefit from fluoride's cavity protection whether they are at home, work or school. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention named community water fluoridation one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.