Fluoride Day is on January 25, and we’re here to show you how you can observe this day in the best way possible. Do you know that it has been 120 years since water-borne Fluoride was first discovered? Fluoride Day is a day dedicated to this chemical compound that has an immense effect on our lives.
History of Fluoride Day
In 1901, Frederick McKay, a young dental student, went to Colorado Springs, Colorado to set up his dental practice. When he reached there, he was astonished to find that most of the locals there had distorted brown teeth. McKay did not understand this. He went through all of his dental literature and books but was unable to find the cause of this abnormality. Many locals believed that the brownness of teeth, known as Colorado Brown Stain, was caused because of high meat consumption and substandard milk. But McKay knew the reason was something else. McKay was determined to find the root cause of this problem, and thus he began to conduct his research.
Dr. G.V. Black accompanied McKay to Colorado to find out the cause of the Colorado Brown Stain. He and McKay made several discoveries. One of the two main discoveries was that locals who had calcified teeth did not risk browning of teeth, and young children who had not yet developed permanent teeth had a higher risk.
The second discovery was that the teeth of the people affected by Colorado Brown Stain were resistant to decay. It would take them a few more years to discover the causes of this phenomenon. Chemist H.V. Churchill and his assistant from the Aluminum Company of America (ALCOA) sent reports to Mckay suggesting that the water contained high levels of Fluoride in it. And thus McKay had found his answer. It was later shown in studies that Fluoride in water at cosmetically safe levels can fight tooth decay.
Though the exact origins are not known, Fluoride Day has been celebrated annually on January 25 to raise awareness on how to use Fluoride effectively without having any detrimental effects on health.
Fluoride Day timeline
Frederick McKay moves to Colorado to set up his dental practice.
Dental Researcher G.V. Black joins McKay in his quest.
Water-borne fluoride, in excessive quantities, is discovered to be the cause of Colorado Brown Stain.
Fluoride Day is created to raise awareness about Fluoride.
Fluoride Day FAQs
Where can you get fluoride?
You can get fluoride from consuming foods and beverages made with fluoridated water, like tea and coffee. Most toothpaste and some mouthwashes also contain fluoride. Even though you should not swallow these, they still add slightly to the amount of fluoride you get each day.
Which is the best fluoride treatment for children?
Fluoride varnish is the better option for children, as they tend to swallow foams or gels, which may cause nausea and vomiting.
Are there any side effects to fluoride treatment?
It is a myth that fluoride treatments or fluoridated water cause widespread harm, although some people may experience some side effects. The most common side effect of fluoride is tooth discoloration. Fluorosis is a condition that causes white streaks or other discoloration on the teeth.
How to Observe Fluoride Day
Learn more about Fluoride
Fluoride can be dangerous, but in the right amount, it can give you some benefits like fighting tooth decay. Use this day to further expand your knowledge of Fluoride and its uses.
Share it on social media
Let people know about the importance of this day. Make a social media post describing the information you discovered on Fluoride and also some amazing facts about Fluoride. The idea is to raise awareness amongst people on the uses of Fluoride in our lives.
Dig deeper into the history
The story of how McKay and Black discovered water-borne Fluoride in Colorado Springs is an interesting one. As you dive deeper into the story, you'll discover some astounding historical facts that you never knew. You might also stumble upon more fascinating stories.
5 Facts About Fluoride That Will Blow Your Mind
It is abundant
Fluoride is the 13th most abundant element in the environment.
It can fight tooth decay
Community fluoridation is one of the most effective ways to control tooth decay in communities.
It is present in foods
Fluoride is naturally found in foods like raisins, lamb, and carrots as well as wine.
It is related to Fluorine
Fluoride is formed when Fluorine combines with minerals and in soil.
It is not very reactive
Compared to Fluorine, which is highly reactive, Fluoride is less reactive.
Why Fluoride Day is Important
It allows us to know more about Fluoride
Though Fluoride is an indispensable part of our lives, most of us don't know about it. This day allows us to learn more about this mineral; its advantages and disadvantages.
It allows us to discover historical facts
As we study more about Fluoride and how it was discovered by Mckay and Black in the early 1900s, we come across historical information and data that are astounding. This day allows us to read about historical discoveries of various elements and improves our general knowledge.
It allows us to raise awareness
Fluoride in excessive amounts can have serious health complications, especially for children. This day is an excellent opportunity to educate people about Fluoride and how it can be used safely.
Fluoride Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January 25 | Saturday |
| 2026 | January 25 | Sunday |
| 2027 | January 25 | Monday |
| 2028 | January 25 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | January 25 | Thursday |
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