Unfortunately, no, fluoride is not filtered by the black filters.
Our initial testing on the black foundation filters showed that fluoride was not filtered effectively. While yes, fluoride was reduced, it wasn't for very many gallons. Staying true to our core values of transparency, we do not extrapolate data, and don't make false claims. Fluoride was not filtered to our standards, so we admit, fluoride is not filtered.
However, good news--we have a new fluoride filter currently in the design and testing phase and will be available later this year!
What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is an anion, meaning it is a negatively charged ion, and is derived from the chemical element fluorine. Fluorine, represented by the symbol F on the periodic table, is the lightest and most electronegative element, belonging to the halogen group. Its atomic number is 9, and it is abundantly found in Earth's crust but typically in the form of minerals such as fluorite, fluorspar, and cryolite.
When a fluorine atom gains an electron to achieve stability, it becomes a fluoride ion (F-). Fluoride ions play a crucial role in various chemical and biological processes, including dental health. In dental health, fluoride ions replace hydroxide ions in the tooth enamel, creating a stronger and more decay-resistant structure known as fluorapatite.
How Does Fluoride Get into Tap Water?
Fluoride finds its way into tap water through both natural processes and intentional public health initiatives. Naturally, fluoride enters water sources from the erosion of rocks and minerals, with varying levels based on geological and geographical factors. Many communities deliberately add fluoride to their water systems in a practice known as water fluoridation. This process allows for a controlled and optimal addition of fluoride to achieve dental health benefits.
The practice of adding fluoride to public water supplies began in the 1940s, rooted in research showcasing fluoride's potential to prevent tooth decay. It emerged from studies conducted in Colorado Springs, where researchers observed that areas with naturally high fluoride levels in water showed fewer instances of cavities. This discovery led to subsequent trials and studies, culminating in the implementation of water fluoridation for enhanced dental health.
Grand Rapids, Michigan, became the inaugural city to introduce fluoride into its water supply in 1945, marking the inception of a nationwide initiative. Over time, comprehensive studies reinforced the positive dental health effects of fluoridation, prompting widespread adoption across the United States and eventually globally.
Why Should Fluoride Be Filtered?
While fluoride in controlled amounts can benefit dental health, the controversy arises from concerns about potential health risks associated with excessive fluoride consumption. Critics worry about the cumulative effects of fluoride exposure from various sources, such as tap water, dental products, and processed foods. Filtering fluoride from tap water provides individuals with an additional layer of control over their fluoride intake, especially in regions where it is already added to the water supply.
The potential link between fluoride exposure and pineal gland calcification, a process where the gland accumulates calcium deposits, has attracted scientific interest and public concern. The pineal gland, a vital endocrine gland in the brain responsible for melatonin production and regulating sleep patterns, can undergo calcification, which tends to increase with age. Research has indicated that fluoride, present in dental products and sometimes intentionally added to water supplies, can accumulate in the pineal gland and potentially expedite this calcification process.
While studies suggest a correlation between fluoride exposure and heightened levels of pineal gland calcification, the definitive implications and mechanisms involved remain subjects of ongoing research and discussion within the scientific and medical communities. Understanding this potential relationship requires continued study and evaluation to establish a clear connection and grasp its significance in the context of human health and well-being.
Health Risks
Dental Fluorosis: Overexposure during tooth development can lead to dental fluorosis, resulting in tooth discoloration and pitting.
Skeletal Fluorosis: Prolonged exposure to high fluoride levels may cause skeletal fluorosis, leading to pain and limited joint mobility.
Thyroid Dysfunction: Some studies suggest a correlation between high fluoride exposure and impaired thyroid function.
The debate around fluoride in tap water continues, and individuals have the option to filter their water to address their specific health concerns. The history of fluoride in public water supplies showcases the evolving understanding of dental health and the efforts made to utilize fluoride effectively. Ultimately, the decision to filter fluoride depends on personal preferences and considerations regarding dental health and overall well-being.
Why is Fluoride Difficult to Filter from Water?
Fluoride is a particularly difficult contaminant to separate from water and requires different, specialized filtration methods. Activated carbon is very effective for chlorine reduction as well as, 85 other common contaminants. However, it's not effective for fluoride, due to the small molecular size, electrochemical charge, and solubility.
Fluoride ions are relatively small in size, making them difficult to capture using traditional filtration methods. Fluorine's atom is very small which pulls electrons closer to its nucleus creating a strong attraction (the closer to the nucleus, the stronger is the attraction). Due to the size of the fluoride molecules, they can pass through most physical barrier filters.
Fluoride ions are electrochemically stable, meaning they do not readily undergo chemical reactions. Fluorine has a high effective nuclear charge as well contributing to its high electronegativity. This charge prevents fluoride to be removed from water through conventional treatment methods. This stability makes it challenging to chemically precipitate or neutralize fluoride ions in water.
Fluoride compounds, such as sodium fluoride or fluorosilicic acid, are highly soluble in water. This solubility means that fluoride ions remain dissolved in water, making them difficult to separate from the water matrix through physical or chemical processes.
In conclusion, the filtration of fluoride poses a significant challenge in the pursuit of desirable water. BOROUX remains committed to innovation, striving to develop solutions that meet customer requests. Our ongoing efforts reflect our dedication to providing access to quality water for all.
