Has the massive proliferation of bottled water had any effect on cavities?

Question

Our tap water has flouride in it, specifically to reduce cavities. But now, people aren't drinking it nearly as often. Has their been any noticeable rise in cavities lately?

Answer 1

I don't think so, but I'm not a dentist. Whatever fluoride may be missing in the bottled water is supplanted by the fluoride in toothpastes and mouth washes. When I was growing up, sugar was the culprit that caused cavities. With healthier eating habits, less candy and sweets are being consumed. Therefore, one could say that dentists are actually seeing fewer patients with cavities now than in previous years, before that proliferation of bottled water.