Public health researchers are sounding the alarm: halting water fluoridation in the United States could result in millions of new cavities among children. Despite strong scientific evidence proving its safety and effectiveness, several states are rolling back fluoridation policies. What does this mean for dentists, physicians, and public health professionals?
-
25 million additional cases of cavities in children and adolescents could occur within five years of ending water fluoridation.
-
States like Utah and Florida have already banned fluoridation, while federal recommendations may soon be suspended.
-
Mass General Brigham researchers warn of “catastrophic consequences” for oral health.
-
CDC and WHO continue to endorse fluoridation as one of the top 10 public health achievements of the 20th century.
A Growing Oral Health Threat
According to researchers at Mass General Brigham, the largest research hospital in the U.S., eliminating water fluoridation could lead to 25 million more cases of tooth decay in children and adolescents within just five years.
“Fluoride strengthens enamel by replacing weaker ions, making teeth more resistant to cavity-causing bacteria,” explains Dr. Lisa Simon, dentist and internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.
Policy Changes vs. Scientific Evidence
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Donald Trump, has announced plans to suspend federal recommendations for water fluoridation. Recently, Utah and Florida passed state-level bans on adding fluoride to drinking water.
Opponents of fluoridation claim that fluoride is an “industrial waste” and link it to cancer, despite a lack of credible scientific evidence supporting these claims.
Why Water Fluoridation Matters
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognizes water fluoridation as one of the 10 greatest public health achievements of the 20th century. It is also endorsed by:
-
American Dental Association (ADA)
-
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
-
World Health Organization (WHO)
Lessons from Calgary: A Real-World Example
In 2011, Calgary, Canada, stopped fluoridating its water. The result: a sharp increase in cavities among children. In March 2025, the city voted to reinstate fluoridation to combat the growing oral health crisis.
Experts emphasize that current fluoride levels are safe. Data show that:
-
Only 1.5% of U.S. children are exposed to excessive fluoride levels.
-
40% receive optimal levels.
-
46% do not receive enough fluoride to prevent cavities effectively.
Summary Points:
-
Water fluoridation is a proven, cost-effective strategy to prevent tooth decay.
-
Ending fluoridation could significantly increase cavity rates, especially in vulnerable populations.
-
Scientific evidence strongly supports the safety and benefits of fluoride.
-
Health professionals should advocate for evidence-based policies to protect oral health.
