Can bottled water cause cavities?

Fluoridated water has had an enormous impact on reducing tooth decay.

Children do receive fluoride from other sources, such as tooth paste, and when they have their dental check ups. Cooking with tap water, for example, and using it for baking and other food preparations also gives some benefit to children.

If the family chooses to use only bottled water, however, then a dentist should determine if the child needs a fluoride supplement. This is usually given in a chewable pill.

Caries, or tooth decay, is a complex disease process. Although fluoride in drinking water provides great protection against tooth decay, it is not a guarantee of preventing cavities. I would rather see children drink water bottled or tap water than fruite juices -- which can lead to tooth decay.