What is the effect of adding fluoride to drinking water?

The addition of fluoride to drinking water is primarily aimed at enhancing dental health and preventing tooth decay. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to the acid produced by bacteria in the mouth. This process significantly reduces the incidence of cavities, particularly in children who are still developing their permanent teeth.

While some might consider the other options, they do not accurately reflect the primary purpose of fluoridation. For instance, improving the taste of water is not a goal of adding fluoride; rather, it is believed that fluoride doesn't significantly impact the water's flavor. Additionally, fluoride does not serve to increase the pH level of the water; its introduction usually has a negligible effect on the overall pH. Finally, while fluoride can have some antimicrobial properties, reducing bacterial growth is not its main function in water treatment. The core advantage of fluoridation lies in its role in promoting oral health by preventing tooth decay.