Suatu Ulasan Kritis Kajian Keperluan Pemfluoridaan Air di dalam Proses Rawatan Air

Abstract

Water fluoridation is a process of adding fluoride into treated water source until the level of fluoride in the water reaches the level recommended by the authorities and in turn benefitting the consumers for good dental and bones. The Ministry of Health Malaysia (KKM) has set a range for fluoride dosage concentration in water systems in Malaysia which are around 0.4 mg/L to 0.6 mg/L. Fluoride ion is not essential for human growth, but it is more beneficial in prevention of dental and bone caries, especially for children. This critical study has been conducted to focus on the necessity of fluoridation of treated water in the water treatment process. Based on this study, the concentration of fluoride in raw water affects the water fluoridation process as the concentration of this element in the drinking water should not exceed the limits set by the authorities. There are several types of fluoridating agent that are commonly used for water fluoridation, including sodium fluoride, sodium silicofluoride and fluorosilicic acid. The addition of the fluoridating agent into the water must comply with the accurate dosage to benefit the consumer, thus preventing fluoride-related diseases. In conclusion, continuous monitoring of fluoride concentration at various levels such as in raw water collection, water treatment and treated water distribution is important to ensure that water with optimal fluoride concentration can be supplied to consumers.