Fluoride naturally exists in the minerals, as well as in soil, water, and air. However, fluoride pollution in the environment occurs because the chemical is synthesized for intentional use in community water fluoridation, dental products, and other consumer items. Obviously, fluoride pollution can adversely impact wildlife.
Water and Soil Pollution from Fluoride Releases into the Environment
Significant quantities of fluoride are discharged to waterways by industrial wastewater. Meanwhile, soil pollution from fluoride occurs in areas where industries emit fluoride into the air and from the use of phosphate fertilizers. Animals eating food grown in the contaminated soil take on this additional burden of
fluoride pollution from the environment.
Plant Damage from Fluoride Pollution in the Environment
Exposure to fluoride accumulates in the foliage of plants and mainly occurs through the atmosphere or through root absorption of soil. This results in a number of problems in the environment, including decreased plant growth and yield. In addition to harming wildlife, this implicates fluoride pollution as a danger to crop yields and other agricultural activities.
Harm to Animals from Fluoride Pollution in the Environment
Fluoride pollution in the environment has been linked to the die off and injury of bees.
Animals are exposed to fluoride in the environment through pollution of air, water, soil, and food. It is important to consider their overall fluoride exposure as a result of each of these sources. Harmful effects of fluoride, including species vulnerability, have been reported in an array of wild animals. Even domestic pets have been subjects of reports raising concerns about fluoride exposure, especially through their water and food.
Additionally, the effects of fluoride on farm animals have been documented. Health problems include anorexia, cramping, collapse, respiratory and cardiac failure, and death. Horses exhibiting crippling symptoms of fluoride toxicity have been studied in Colorado and Texas.
Trailer for the documentary Poisoned Horses: This video shows examples of the fluoride poisoning that has been documented in horses.
Fluoride Article Authors
Dr. Jack Kall, DMD, FAGD, MIAOMT, is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and a past President of the Kentucky chapter. He is an Accredited Master of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) and since 1996 has served as the Chairman of its’ Board of Directors. He also serves on the Bioregulatory Medical Institute’s (BRMI) Board of Advisors. He is a member of the Institute for Functional Medicine and American Academy for Oral Systemic Health.
Dr. Griffin Cole, MIAOMT received his Mastership in the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology in 2013 and drafted the Academy’s Fluoridation Brochure and the official Scientific Review on Ozone use in root canal therapy. He is a past President of the IAOMT and serves on the Board of Directors, the Mentor Committee, the Fluoride Committee, the Conference Committee and is the Fundamentals Course Director.
