What is typically added to drinking water to help with dental health?

Fluoride is added to drinking water primarily because it has been shown to significantly reduce the incidence of tooth decay, making it an essential component in promoting dental health. The addition of fluoride helps in the remineralization of early stages of tooth decay and strengthens the enamel of teeth, making it more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth. This practice, known as water fluoridation, is widely endorsed by health organizations as an effective public health measure for improving oral health in the community.

Chlorine is mainly used for disinfection to eliminate harmful bacteria and pathogens in drinking water, while sodium is often associated with water softeners or as a regulated additive for taste, and calcium is more about overall dietary health and does not specifically target dental health in drinking water.