Dear Editor:

I am writing to the citizens of the Boothbay Region to urge them to support the continuation of the fluoridation of the Boothbay Region Water District (BRWD) by voting “yes” on the referendum question in November.

The Warrant Article 2, to be voted on in our upcoming election on Nov. 8, appears to be deceptive in its wording. As stated it reads: Article 2: “Shall fluoride be added to the public water supply to for the intended purpose of reducing tooth decay?”

To ask if fluoride should be added is begging the question. It already is present in our drinking water supply, not only naturally occurring, but also by the addition of small amounts of additional fluoride for the benefit of healthy tooth development. According to geologists and the CDC, fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is released from rocks into the soil, water, and air. Almost all water contains some fluoride, but usually not enough to prevent tooth decay.

Our communities have benefited from water fluoridation since 2003. The use of fluoride is well-studied and has been documented to be safe and effective. The BRWD has measured and delivered just enough fluoride to assure that our water is safe, and that the addition of fluoride is effective in preventing tooth decay.

Since its initiation in 1945, public water fluoridation has become one of the most successful public health initiatives of all time. It has aided in the prevention of early childhood cavities (tooth decay) throughout the United States. Almost 80 percent of people in Maine whose water comes from public water supplies have access to fluoridated water. All individuals benefit from systemic fluoride (fluoride in drinking water), but the harmful reality is that its removal will most greatly impact our children.

Fluoridating water is a time-honored, safe, and inexpensive way of preventing dental decay. It benefits everyone in the community, regardless of age, economic status, or ability to access regular dental care.

Let’s not give up this effective preventive health measure now. I urge the voters of Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor and Southport to vote “yes” on Nov. 8 and keep fluoride in our drinking water.

Lee Corbin

Boothbay Harbor