Poland spring water has been around for centuries and has been a popular choice among consumers in the U.S. for years. The primary water source for Poland Spring is from ground water aquifers located throughout the state of Maine. While it is commonly known that Poland spring has its own unique and clean taste, the question of fluoride has yet to be answered definitively.
Fluoride is a mineral that is added to drinking water as it has been shown to reduce the occurrence of dental cavities. Fluoride has become an integral part of public water systems across the United States, including most large cities. As a result, the question of whether or not Poland spring has been fluoridated has been asked for years.
In order to determine whether or not Poland spring water contains fluoride, we must first examine the water source. Out of the six natural spring sites used to fill Poland spring, only two of them are within areas where the fluoride levels are tested. The other four sites used to fill the water are considered “untested sources of supply”. It is estimated that only half of the water used to fill Poland Spring bottles is actually tested.
The two sites that have been tested both contain the optimal levels of fluoride for public health purposes. However, due to the fact that only two out of the six water source sites have been tested, it is impossible to say for certain that the entire product includes fluoride. It is widely accepted that fluoride is present in the water, but it is unclear how much.
The amount of fluoride present in Poland Spring is not likely to be enough for it to be officially classified as a fluoridated product. So, while it is likely that the water contains at least some level of fluoride, it is not likely to be enough to lead to cavity prevention. Ultimately, one would need to find an independent accredited laboratory to test the specific water sample they are using in order to be fully certain of fluoride levels.
While fluoride is not added directly to Poland Spring, it is important to remember that fluoride can occur naturally in groundwater sources. In areas where the natural levels are high, public water systems are required to add additional fluoride in order to keep it at optimal levels. This is not typically the case with bottled spring water, however.
Pros of Fluoride
The biggest pro that comes to mind with fluoride is the widely accepted reduction of cavities. Not only does fluoride help reduce the number of cavities a person might get, it also helps reduce the amount of treatment that one might need for them. Fluoride treatments can help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. It has also been known to help reduce the cost of dental care overall.
Fluoride is also safe for most individuals to consume, as long as it is monitored. Too much fluoride, however, can lead to dental fluorosis. This is why the levels need to be monitored regularly and kept within an acceptable range.
Cons of Fluoride
One of the biggest cons associated with fluoride is the fact that it is not always easily accessible. This is due to the fact that fluoridation of public drinking water systems is not available in all areas. Those who live in rural areas or other parts of the world where it is not available may find it difficult to obtain the benefits of fluoride.
In addition, some people have expressed concerns about the safety of fluoride consumption. While studies show that fluoride is generally safe for consumption in recommended amounts, some worry that it can have adverse health effects if ingested in large amounts.
Alternatives to Fluoride
If one chooses not to consume fluoride, there are some alternatives that can still help reduce the risk of cavities. These include brushing teeth regularly, flossing, and using mouth rinses that are fluoride free. Some of these rinses can contain antimicrobial agents that help kill bacteria that can cause tooth decay.
Alternatives don’t necessarily replace the need for fluoride, but they can help reduce tooth decay in the absence of traditional fluoride treatments. For example, substituting sugary soft drinks with fluoridated tap water can help to reduce the risk of cavities.
Is Poland Spring Fluoride?
The answer to this question is unclear. While Poland Spring sources their water in areas with fluoride, it is unclear how much, if any, fluoride is actually present in the product. It is unlikely that Poland Spring has the necessary levels to be classified as a fluoridated product, but it is difficult to say definitively without further testing.
Additional Studies
Further research into fluoride levels in Poland Spring is necessary in order to get a better understanding of the amount present in the water source. The two sites that have been tested both contain the optimal levels of fluoride, but it is still unclear how much is present in the other four water sources.
Conclusion
Overall, while it is likely that Poland Spring water contains some levels of fluoride, it is difficult to say definitively how much is present. Further testing is needed in order to get an accurate measure of fluoride levels in Poland Spring. Until then, it is wise to take preventative steps when it comes to reducing tooth decay, such as brushing teeth regularly, flossing, and using mouth rinses that are fluoride free.
