Fluoridation is the addition of fluorine to public water supplies with
the aim of reducing tooth decay. The fluorine, when mixed with water,
becomes fluoride and the desired concentration of fluoride in public
water is approximately one part per million, depending on the regional
temperature and hence the amount of water people are likely to drink.
Many studies, such as those by McClure in 1970 through to Burt in 1983,
have shown that when children drink fluoridated water, their average
rate of tooth decay seems greatly reduced. A typical figure claimed is
50 percent reduction. This apparently enormous benefit for children's
teeth is the major argument in favour of fluoridation.
1. The optimum amount of fluorine in fluoridated water is calculated
A. how hot the area is.
B. how warm the water is.
C. how many dental problems there are in the community.
D. how much fluorine the community chooses to have in its water.
2. One reason given by the writer for opposing fluoridation is that
A. it may contribute to tooth decay.
B. it will be unacceptably expensive for the public.
C. obligatory fluoridation takes away personal freedom.
D. excessive fluoride could be added to the water by mistake.
3. What did Sutton's research discover about earlier studies in North
A. There were failings in the way they were carried out.
B. The scientists involved had achieved unique results.
C. Proponents of fluoridation had not understood its long-term effects.
D. Fluoridation had a greater effect on tooth decay than previously