Which one of the following is a major effect of long term consumption

Which one of the following is a major effect of long term consumption of drinking water containing little (less than 0.5 ppm) or no fluoride ?

Cavity of tooth
Erosion of nail
Deformation of bone
Mottling of tooth
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CAPF – 2017
The correct option is A.
Fluoride in drinking water is crucial for maintaining dental health, particularly for strengthening tooth enamel and preventing cavities (dental caries). Long-term consumption of water with insufficient fluoride (less than 0.5 ppm, or no fluoride) leads to weaker enamel, making teeth more susceptible to acid attacks from bacteria and increasing the risk of cavities.
Options B, C, and D describe effects related to other factors or excessive fluoride intake. Erosion of nails (B) is not a known effect of fluoride levels in water. Deformation of bone (skeletal fluorosis) (C) and mottling of teeth (dental fluorosis) (D) are caused by *excessive* long-term consumption of fluoride, not insufficient amounts.