When the fluorine atom in the neutral state takes an electron and changes to the ion (ie anion) state, it is called fluoride. Substances containing fluoride ions are also called fluoride. Because fluorides are ions, they do not take place in nature alone, they can only be present together with the counter ions in a solution.

Fluoride is not produced from natural substances and is widely used in daily cleaning products and toothpaste formulations. Fluoride is important for the development of teeth and against tooth decay, but when taken in large amounts, it slows the development of organs or tissues and may cause health problems. Some joint diseases are also caused by high amounts of fluoride.

In some countries, fluoride added to drinking water has been debated in recent years as it has suffered more than benefits. In some countries, the addition of fluoride to water is prohibited. We also do not add fluoride to the water, but many cities naturally have fluoride in the network water. In addition, fluoride is present in many products, including instant fruit juices, sodas, and even baby food.

The main reason fluoride is harmful is that it is prone to accumulation in the body. Fluoride is one of the bioaccumulating chemicals. Normally, the human body excretes half of the fluoride taken daily by urine. The other half accumulates in the bones and brain. Fluoride taken at high doses has been shown to damage male reproductive organs. Fluoride is thought to cause Alzheimer's disease in the long term.

The high amount of fluoride in the soil passes to the living organisms through plants. For this reason, laboratories authorized by national and international accreditation bodies carry out fluoride analyzes within the framework of soil measurements.

During these analyzes, laboratories use the following methods:

• SM 4110 B Chromotographic method
• SM 4500F B
• SM 4500F-C Ion selective electrode method
• SM 4500F-D SPANDS method