Latest news with #fluoride
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
FDA to review prescription fluoride supplements for kids at risk for tooth decay
The Trump administration is inching closer to banning fluoride tablets and drops often prescribed to kids who don't have access to fluoridated drinking water and are at high risk for mouths full of decayed teeth. On Wednesday, the Food and Drug Administration will host a public meeting featuring both supporters and opponents of fluoride supplements. While dentists overwhelmingly say the tablets have been used safely for decades, more than half of the meeting will be spent 'identifying safety concerns and potential risk' associated with the supplements. A final decision about whether to pull fluoride supplements off the market isn't expected until the end of October. In May, the FDA commissioner, Dr. Marty Makary, announced the agency's intention to get rid of them. Wednesday's meeting includes 18 speakers, including well-known fluoride skeptics like Dr. Bill Osmonsun, a retired dentist now with the Fluoride Action Network, and Dr. Bruce Lanphear, a professor of health sciences at Simon Fraser University in Canada. Lanphear published a controversial 2019 study suggesting that IQ levels were slightly lower in kids whose mothers had ingested more fluoride while pregnant, research that's frequently cited by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Dr. Charlotte Lewis, a professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington School of Medicine, and Dr. Jayanth Kumar, who previously was dental director for California, will counter those presentations. Dr. James Bekker, a pediatric dentist and a member of the Utah Dental Association who is scheduled to speak at Wednesday's meeting, said: 'Say we take supplements off the market. What's the alternative? There is none.' Utah and Florida have banned fluoride from public water systems. Similar legislation is under consideration in Kentucky, Massachusetts and Nebraska. Critics say the risks from fluoride during a child's early years override the benefit of protecting against tooth decay, a disease that can cause pain, infection and other possible health problems. In an interview with Fox News, Kennedy acknowledged that areas without fluoride in their water are likely to have 'slightly more cavities.' Bekker was more blunt. 'Buckle up,' he said. 'We're going to have an onslaught of cavities.' What are fluoride supplements? Nearly two-thirds of dentists in the United States prescribe fluoride supplements to their patients, especially in areas without community water fluoridation, according to a American Dental Association report this year. Sodium fluoride tablets and drops are prescription only, and they have been used for decades to prevent tooth decay. A 2011 analysis of 11 studies, including some randomized controlled trials, by French researchers found that 0.25 mg up to 1 mg a day of the supplements reduced rates of cavities in kids by nearly a quarter. The chewable tablets come in several doses and are particularly important for families who live in areas without fluoride in drinking water and who don't have dental insurance or can't afford regular visits to dentists. Even though Medicaid covers oral health for children, fewer than half went to the dentist at least once a year. Cavities that erupt in those kids get worse if they're left untreated, and they can cause widespread damage. The decay 'eats away at the bone' around the tooth and sometimes gets into the bloodstream, said Dr. Steven Levy, a professor of preventive and community dentistry at the University of Iowa. 'This is more than just a garden-variety, middle-class person's experience with a cavity,' he said. Major public health groups, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, recommend prescribing supplements for children starting at 6 months if the water supply isn't fluoridated. Fluoride supplements are often given to kids from age 5 until they have their permanent teeth, around age 13 or 14, Bekker said. Babies get drops until they're old enough to chew tablets. They're generally inexpensive. Over-the-counter vitamins and supplements don't contain fluoride. Fluoride is available over the counter only in toothpaste and mouthwashes. Limited research on fluoride supplements According to Makary, the FDA commissioner, ingested fluoride alters the gut microbiome. That assertion appears to hinge on a 2023 review of research on the matter. Scientists in Ireland noted that animal studies suggested ingesting fluoride affected the microbiome but that none of the studies examined fluoride and the human microbiome. They concluded that any possible effect of fluoride on the microbiome is 'still in its early days, and studies investigating the impact of fluoride on the human microbiome have only begun to appear in the literature.' Makary also objects to the fluoride supplements because they aren't approved by the FDA. Because the supplements had been in use for decades before Congress mandated that drug manufacturers show that their products were not only safe but also effective, they were never required to go through the approval process. For almost as long as the supplements have been prescribed, critics have been concerned about the lack of rigorous data showing their potential health effects and how they protect kids' teeth. 'I think we really need to understand the benefits,' said Linda Birnbaum, a toxicologist and former director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and the National Toxicology Program. Birnbaum is listed as a speaker at the FDA meeting Wednesday. Bekker said safety and efficacy of fluoride supplements for kids have long been established. 'Why is this even a question? This is the biggest no-brainer since sliced bread,' he said. This article was originally published on
CNET
5 hours ago
- Health
- CNET
Nano-Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste: The Benefits and Risks of the Fluoride-Free Alternative
As health concerns around fluoride in public drinking water continue to swirl, nano-hydroxyapatite toothpastes are becoming increasingly popular substitutes for fluoride toothpaste. Popular brands include Boka Davids and NOBS (No Bad Stuff), which are touted as fluoride-free alternatives that whiten teeth, repair enamel and prevent cavities. "As ingredient labels shift toward cleaner, fluoride-free formulas, one compound is taking center stage in modern oral care: nano-hydroxyapatite," Dr. Pia Lieb, DDS, cosmetic dentist and clinical assistant professor emerita at NYU College of Dentistry, explains. If you're thinking about replacing your fluoride toothpaste with a nano-hydroxyapatite alternative, this is what dental experts want you to know before you brush your teeth. What is nano-hydroxyapatite? "Nano-hydroxyapatite is a synthetic calcium phosphate compound that's used in some oral care products, including toothpastes," explains Dr. Ada Cooper, consumer advisor and spokesperson for the American Dental Association, says. "[It] has a structure that is similar to hydroxyapatite found in enamel, and nHAP gets incorporated into the tooth structure preferentially in demineralized areas." Nano-hydroxyapatite is also abbreviated as n-HA and n-HAp. Dr. Royce Lai of King Village Dental adds that this is technically a two-part question, since "hydroxyapatite has been around for decades and has been studied for at least 20 years." Newer and less studied, nano-hydroxyapatite is a version of hydroxyapatite with small, rod-shaped particles. "Hydroxyapatite is natural. It is a type of calcium that makes up bones and teeth," says Lai. "Nano-hydroxyapatite relates to the particle size. These are between 20 and 80 nanometers and are much smaller than the hydroxyapatite tubules that are a part of your teeth." According to Dr. Daniela Eversgerd, a cosmetic dentist and the founder of Allure Dental, nano-hydroxyapatite was developed by NASA in the 1970s for astronauts dealing with bone and enamel loss during long periods of space travel. Since the early 1990s, it has been approved for oral care products in Japan. Nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste benefits "Nano-hydroxyapatite doesn't just protect your teeth -- it helps rebuild them," says Dr. Catrise Austin, a cosmetic dentist, author of Gum Health Made Simple and host of the Let's Talk Smiles podcast. She lists the following as potential nano-hydroxyapatite benefits: Enamel remineralization Tooth sensitivity relief Reduced bacterial adhesion Whitening and gloss enhancement "n-HA can actually fill microscopic cracks and help reverse or arrest early cavities," adds dentist Dr. Sandip Sachar. Austin cites a 2019 study that found a 10% hydroxyapatite toothpaste is equivalent or non-inferior to fluoride toothpaste for preventing and remineralizing dental cavities (or caries) in children. When it comes to teeth sensitivity, Lai cites a 2014 study concluding that 15% nano-hydroxyapatite helped sensitive teeth. "The particle size could get into space and work better than larger particles in micro-hydroxyapatite or fluoride," he explains. "The conclusion was that nano-hydroxyapatite could significantly reduce tooth sensitivity to hot and cold in two to four weeks of use." Referencing an 18-month 2023 clinical trial finding that a 10% n-HAp toothpaste protected adult teeth from new cavities as well as a standard 1,450-ppm fluoride paste, Dr. Christopher Tolmie, DDS, MBA, of PDS Health, states, "By patching enamel and calming swollen gums, nano-hydroxyapatite may cut off a hidden spark of chronic inflammation linked to heart disease and diabetes." Since nano-hydroxyapatite toothpastes are fluoride free, Dr. Yenile Y. Pinto, DDS, functional and biomimetic dentist and founder of Deering Dental, adds, "It's also been shown to reduce sensitivity and strengthen the enamel surface without the risk of fluorosis." Fluorosis occurs when you get too much fluoride as a child, causing white or brown spots on the teeth. The CDC reports that fluorosis typically doesn't affect tooth function and isn't painful. A 2020 systematic review of 32 studies concluded that "Nano-HA is a relatively novel material with outstanding physical, chemical, mechanical and biological properties that makes it suitable for multiple interventions. It outperformed most of the classic materials used in implantology and surgery, but it should be further investigated for bone engineering and caries prevention therapy." HengleinA 2023 comprehensive review found that, while more long-term studies are needed to establish the safety of regular use, "Nanohydroxyapatite is a promising revolutionary material in the prevention of early carious lesion mainly due to a greater source of free calcium." Ultimately, providing a 2021 review and 2022 scoping review, Cooper concludes, "Although there is some evidence that alternative ingredients, such as [nano] hydroxyapatite, prevent tooth decay by acting as a remineralizing or anti-cavity agent, the studies are preliminary. The only anti-cavity agent recognized by the Food and Drug Administration in its over-the-counter monograph is fluoride, a naturally occurring chemical." Cooper adds that all toothpastes with the ADA Seal of Acceptance contain fluoride. The administration specifically recommends brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and regularly visiting your dentist. Nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste risks "According to a [2021] narrative review from Odontology, the official journal of the Society of the Nippon Dental University, so far, there have been no reports of adverse dental or systemic effects of HAP-containing toothpastes because HAP has an excellent biocompatibility," states Cooper. According to Austin, the concern with nano-hydroxyapatite is that, because it's made of nanoparticles, some worry about how much might get absorbed into the body if regularly swallowed. "The European Commission's Scientific Committee raised concerns due to the lack of long-term safety data on ingestion, particularly in children," she says. This has led to temporary nano-hydroxyapatite restrictions (not a full-on banning) in Europe. The European Scientific Committee deems nHA safe in toothpaste up to 29.5% and up to 10% in mouthwash, per Tolmie. However, he states, "Regulators still bar it from breath-spray products to avoid lung exposure, so stick to pastes and rinses." Key concerns around nano-hydroxyapatite, according to Lieb, are: Potential ingestion and systemic absorption, especially in nano form Lack of long-term studies in humans on the cumulative effects Unknown impact of inhalation from aerosol products (not toothpaste) In terms of systemic absorption, Sachar specifies, "Because nano-hydroxyapatite particles are similar in composition to bone mineral, there has been some theoretical concern that if absorbed systemically, they could potentially contribute to unwanted calcifications in soft tissues (like blood vessels or kidneys)." However, she states that this is speculative and not supported by any current clinical nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste only effective at 10%? "Most clinical formulations of nHA range from 5%-15%, with 10% emerging as the benchmark concentration in several Japanese and European studies," answers Lieb. "This concentration has demonstrated reliable enamel restoration while maintaining product stability and usability." However, she states that newer formulations are experimenting with lower concentrations and enhanced delivery systems (such as encapsulation or synergistic minerals), which may improve efficacy at reduced levels. "The effectiveness isn't just about percentage, it's also about particle quality and how it's delivered to the tooth surface," she explains. Tolmie adds, "Effective repair starts as low as 5% and plateaus around 10-15%. Several studies show that 5% n-HAp can mend enamel dings, divots and dents in the teeth, with benefits leveling off somewhere between 10% and 15%. One review even noted that 5% sometimes beats 10% because fewer particles clump, making them easier to slip into enamel defects; hence, most US brands sit comfortably in the 5-10% sweet spot." We also reached out to Dr. Foti Panagakos, who's a part of Boka's Oral Health Advisory Committee. "While there is a lot of discussion around nano-hydroxyapatite concentration and its effectiveness, what matters most is how it is formulated and the fact that the ingredient is backed by research," he explains. "This includes how nano-hydroxyapatite is stabilized, delivered and supported by other ingredients, which is why at Boka, years were spent working with oral health professionals to ensure our formula delivers on both safety and performance. Each tube of Boka toothpaste contains a precisely balanced concentration of nano-hydroxyapatite -- high enough to deliver measurable benefits and safe for daily use, with a formula that's gentle on dentin." Should people replace fluoride toothpaste with nano-hydroxyapatite? Eversgerd states that it all depends on each person's oral health needs. "Fluoride remains the gold standard for cavity prevention, supported by decades of large-scale, randomized controlled trials," she explains. "However, for patients seeking a fluoride alternative -- whether due to sensitivity, allergies, personal preferences or a desire for a biomimetic approach -- nano-hydroxyapatite provides a scientifically supported option." According to the Academy of Biomimetic Dentistry, a biomimetic approach is one in which damaged teeth are restored using materials mimicking natural teeth in function, strength and appearance. For high-risk patients, Eversgerd recommends fluoride, while she may recommend n-Ha to low-risk or fluoride-averse individuals. Austin seconds this, but adds that she also recommends fluoride toothpaste to children with poor brushing habits or communities with limited dental access. "nHA is a great option, but it's not a one-size-fits-all replacement for fluoride -- yet," Austin says. Lieb explains that nHA may also be a compelling alternative for patients with aesthetic concerns, such as whitening-induced sensitivity, and individuals in preventive care regimens post-restorative treatment. Pinto agrees that it depends on the person, stating, "For most of my patients, especially those with low to moderate cavity risk, nano-hydroxyapatite is an excellent option; gentler on the mouth, less drying and effective at rebuilding early damage. For people with high cavity risk, fluoride might still be the best choice, at least short term. For my high-risk patients, I often recommend a combo toothpaste that includes both ingredients when appropriate." Ultimately, if a patient isn't high risk and has health or safety concerns about fluoride, she thinks hydroxyapatite is a great option. When asked if there's a reason people should choose n-HAp over other anti-cavity toothpastes, Tolmie answers, "No, as long as patients are brushing their teeth with an anti-cavity toothpaste. There are differences in the way an n-HAp toothpaste and a fluoride toothpaste work to prevent decay, and some n-HAp toothpastes may feel smoother on the teeth. But anti-cavity toothpastes as a whole accomplish the same task. Do I wash a car with tap water or bottled water? We know that both of them get the job done." What's most important, according to Tolmie, is that patients ensure they're not swallowing toothpaste. What does the American Dental Association think? Cooper states that the ADA recommends brushing teeth twice daily for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, as the naturally occurring mineral has been proven to remineralize weakened enamel and reverse early signs of tooth decay. "Additionally, the fluoride you take in from drinking water and other beverages continues to provide a topical benefit because it becomes part of your saliva, constantly bathing the teeth and helping to rebuild weakened tooth enamel," Cooper further explains. "The best scientific evidence has shown that adding fluoride to community water supplies is safe and effective. This is backed by decades of research and recognized by more than 100 health organizations." GoodboyDoes nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste work? All of the dentists we consulted agree that nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste works, but in the right context and with the right product. It's also not a miracle cure and should not replace your entire oral care routine, dentist's recommendations or regular appointments. Plus, Eversgerd adds that more long-term, large-scale trials are needed to fully validate whether it's equal to fluoride in preventing cavities. When asked if it's effective, Austin says, "Yes -- particularly for enamel remineralization and sensitivity. In my practice, I've seen patients who switched to nHA toothpaste experience noticeable improvements in comfort, plaque control and surface smoothness. But like any product, it works best when paired with consistent brushing, flossing and professional cleanings." Pinto agrees and has also seen the results firsthand. "It helps remineralize enamel, soothe sensitivity and support a healthier oral microbiome, especially when paired with a good routine (good home hygiene, healthy diet, hydration and nasal breathing)," she explains, noting that it's not a miracle cure, but does offer many benefits. On behalf of the ADA, Cooper echoes Eversgerd's earlier statement: "The use of nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAP) in over-the-counter products is growing, and some evidence shows that nHAP may contribute to remineralization, but the evidence is fairly new and often ambiguous, especially regarding clinical indications. " Do experts recommend nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste? All of the experts we consulted do recommend nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste, but only for certain patients. After all, according to Austin, "Nearly half of US adults over 30 have some form of gum disease, and you can't out-toothpaste a bad hygiene routine." Brushing your teeth regularly, flossing and regularly visiting your dentist are still essential, no matter what toothpaste you use. Though Lieb recommends nHA toothpaste for adult patients experiencing post-whitening sensitivity or early enamel erosion, low-caries risk individuals seeking natural alternatives and adults undergoing cosmetic dental work who want to protect their investment with gentle, remineralizing care, she doesn't recommend nano-hydroxyapatite for children with deciduous dentition. "In my professional opinion, fluoride remains the safest and most effective option for all patients under 14," says Lieb. "Its protective effect during the development of permanent dentition is unmatched, and its caries-prevention record is well established." Sachar states that she often recommends it for "patients seeking fluoride-free options, those with mild tooth sensitivity and for children at risk of swallowing fluoride toothpaste." However, she advises that patients with moderate to high cavity risk not fully abandon fluoride. Again, it's important to note that the "ADA recommends that adults brush their teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes each time, or as directed by a licensed dentist," according to Cooper. This is because the proposed benefits of nHAP are fairly new and ambiguous. Getty Images The bottom line Though more research is needed, the dentists we consulted explained that nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste can be an effective alternative to fluoride -- but only in the right context. The ADA doesn't recommend it. It's also not a miracle cure or a replacement for brushing regularly, flossing and professional dental appointments. If you're considering nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste, consult your dentist first before making the switch. They know your teeth best and will be able to help you find the best toothpaste for your smile.
Daily Mail
7 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE RFK Jr's toothy smile sparks fury as he launches crusade on dental health
Robert F Kennedy Jr 's smile sparked anger among dentists who take issue with his crusade against fluoride, an anti-cavity mineral, in drinking water. The Department of Health and Human Services secretary is leading the federal government's charge against adding what the government standards say are safe amounts of fluoride in public water systems to bolster the nation's oral health. Dr Royce Lai, a dentist based in Ontario, Canada, said after looking at a recent photo of RFK Jr: 'I can tell he needs a deep teeth cleaning as Secretary Kennedy has significant plaque and tartar buildup around the gum line. 'His gums look healthy, but are prone to gingivitis with that amount of buildup.' Other dentists told that RFK Jr's adequate dental health is thanks to elite care and a lifetime of benefits from government-backed policies dating back to WWII. While RFK Jr may be short a few cleanings, according to Dr Lai, 'Mr. Kennedy, like everyone his age, grew up with fluoride in the water. It is expected that his generation should have fewer cavities and oral health problems than previous generations.' Fluoride helps prevent cavities by strengthening enamel and blocking acid from decay-causing bacteria. RFK Jr opposes it based on a study linking it to developmental issues in children, but critics say the research ignored factors like lead exposure and poverty, and used inconsistent data. The CDC and ADA reject the findings, citing no proven link or IQ drops in fluoridated areas. 'I find it more odd more than anything because we've had fluoride in water since the 1960s without any apparent ill effects,' Dr Lai added. 'The number of cavities lessened through the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, and children in rural areas seemed to have improved oral health.' Dr Mohamad Khorshid, a dentist in Toronto, gave his thoughts on Kennedy's oral health based on a recent photo of him. The off-white substance wedged between the front teeth appears to be food residue rather than harmful plaque or tartar. 'The white strip near the front teeth is likely a surgical pack to protect a gum surgery site or a possible nicotine patch. It's very hard to tell from this partial view,' he said. Dr Sandip Sachar, a New York City-based dentist, said: 'I do not really see any significant tartar build-up on his teeth except in one spot- where it is difficult to say for sure if that is tartar or just a photographic artifact or something that is caught between his teeth.' Dr Khorshid also noted that the teeth exhibit discoloration and moderate wear, but no severe decay. The presence of gum recession and abrasions suggests the use of aggressive brushing or grinding techniques. 'The teeth don't show severe decay or enamel erosion, which might suggest some fluoride benefit, possibly from drinking water,' Dr Khorshid added. Evidence suggests that very high fluoride exposure, exceeding 1.5 milligrams per liter, may have a small effect on IQ. But water fluoridation levels are far below this threshold – 0.7 mg/L – with no direct evidence linking standard fluoridation to IQ loss. A wealth of studies consistently report that fluoridated water helps reduce the risk of tooth decay and cavities. In 1956, researchers found that after a decade of fluoridation, only the second US city to do so, Newburgh, NY, saw 58 percent less childhood tooth decay than non-fluoridated Kingston. Even older Newburgh children had 41 to 52 percent fewer cavities. Similarly, Evanston, IL, reported a 57 percent decline in cavities just six years after adopting fluoridation. Dentists fear an uptick in cavities and gum disease as the anti-fluoride movement gains momentum, with states and municipalities dropping fluoridation like falling dominoes. Alaska became the first to end mandatory fluoridation in 2007, followed by Utah in 2010. Since then, dozens of cities have followed suit, including Portland, OR, Juneau, AK, Collier County, FL, and most recently, Union County, NC. The trend shows no signs of slowing, with about 200 smaller municipalities having discontinued fluoridation since 2010. Dr Khorshid said: 'The anti-fluoride movement is frustrating, as extensive research confirms fluoride safety and decay-prevention benefits at recommended levels. 'Opposition often misrepresents data, undermining public health gains, though addressing concerns with evidence remains the best approach.' RFK Jr acknowledged that fluoride-free water will result in an uptick in cavities and tooth decay. 'It's a balance," Kennedy said during an interview on Fox News' 'The Faulkner Focus' last month. 'You're going to see probably slightly more cavities. Although in Europe, where they ban fluoride, they did not see an uptick in cavities. The issue is parents need to decide because the science is very clear on fluoride.' Fluoride is not banned in Europe, though it is less widespread than in the US.
Yahoo
16-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Arkansas one of several states weighing fluoride ban
Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont this week signed legislation requiring the state to keep fluoride at existing levels. But Florida and Utah have banned adding fluoride to drinking water, and other states may follow, as the decades-old practice of adding it to public drinking is facing renewed attacks, including from the federal government. Arkansas state Sen. Bryan King, a cattle and poultry farmer in Fayetteville, told CBS News he has "concerns" about adding fluoride to water. Since 2011, when the state mandated most public drinking water to include fluoride, King has thrown his anti-fluoride voice behind a handful of bills seeking to repeal that mandate. Fluoride is a natural mineral. It strengthens teeth and fights dental decay. It's been added to the U.S.'s public drinking supply since the 1940s. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention rated fluoride as one of the top ten public health achievements of the 20th century. And according to the American Dental Association, "70 years of research, thousands of studies and the experience of more than 210 million Americans tell us that water fluoridation is effective in preventing cavities and is safe for children and adults." "If that's the case, they need to individually go out to each water district and sell it to the people there, and let them make their own water decisions," King said. At least 19 states have considered legislation to remove, ban or make fluoride optional in public drinking water this year. One of fluoride's most prominent critics is Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. In the latest skirmish over science, fluoride opponents argue that at high levels, it can lead to kidney and liver damage and lower IQs in children. The National Institutes of Health's toxicology program in 2024 determined "with moderate confidence" that there is a link between high levels of fluoride exposure and lower IQs in children. That conclusion was based on studies involving fluoride levels of about twice the recommended limit for drinking water. The American Academy of Pediatrics has questioned the validity of the NIH's report, noting it had "important limitations," including the high fluoride levels, and that other reviews have come to different conclusions about fluoride's risks and benefits. The EPA in 2011 lowered the recommended limit for fluoride in water to cut down on fluorosis — when spots appear on kids' teeth — and in the wake of a 2006 report from the National Academy of Sciences that found a lifetime of overconsumption of fluoride can lead to weakened, brittle bones and teeth. At Arkansas' Fort Smith water system, Lance McAvoy, who oversees the system, told CBS News it's monitored 24/7. "We actually take samples every 15 minutes to verify the online equipment," McAvoy said, adding there had never been an instance of significantly higher fluoride levels to date. Dentists such as Kenton Ross, who also serves as president of Arkansas' dental association, say the science supporting fluoride is indisputable. "You're gonna see a 25% reduction in tooth decay," Ross said of adding fluoride to drinking water. "We have over 75 years of research over community fluoridation." For dentists, losing fluoride could mean losing the battle against tooth decay. "It's gonna affect the children the worst because if they don't get it, we can't put it in later in life," Ross said. Trump pushes senators to make $9.4 trillion in spending cuts Child rescued after getting stuck in claw machine Fight over fluoride in water continues, despite warnings from dentists
CBS News
16-07-2025
- Health
- CBS News
Arkansas one of several states weighing fluoride ban
Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont this week signed legislation requiring the state to keep fluoride at existing levels. But Florida and Utah have banned adding fluoride to drinking water, and other states may follow, as the decades-old practice of adding it to public drinking is facing renewed attacks, including from the federal government. Arkansas state Sen. Bryan King, a cattle and poultry farmer in Fayetteville, told CBS News he has "concerns" about adding fluoride to water. Since 2011, when the state mandated most public drinking water to include fluoride, King has thrown his anti-fluoride voice behind a handful of bills seeking to repeal that mandate. Fluoride is a natural mineral. It strengthens teeth and fights dental decay. It's been added to the U.S.'s public drinking supply since the 1940s. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention rated fluoride as one of the top ten public health achievements of the 20th century. And according to the American Dental Association, "70 years of research, thousands of studies and the experience of more than 210 million Americans tell us that water fluoridation is effective in preventing cavities and is safe for children and adults." "If that's the case, they need to individually go out to each water district and sell it to the people there, and let them make their own water decisions," King said. At least 19 states have considered legislation to remove, ban or make fluoride optional in public drinking water this year. One of fluoride's most prominent critics is Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. In the latest skirmish over science, fluoride opponents argue that at high levels, it can lead to kidney and liver damage and lower IQs in children. The National Institutes of Health's toxicology program in 2024 determined "with moderate confidence" that there is a link between high levels of fluoride exposure and lower IQs in children. That conclusion was based on studies involving fluoride levels of about twice the recommended limit for drinking water. The American Academy of Pediatrics has questioned the validity of the NIH's report, noting it had "important limitations," including the high fluoride levels, and that other reviews have come to different conclusions about fluoride's risks and benefits. The EPA in 2011 lowered the recommended limit for fluoride in water to cut down on fluorosis — when spots appear on kids' teeth — and in the wake of a 2006 report from the National Academy of Sciences that found a lifetime of overconsumption of fluoride can lead to weakened, brittle bones and teeth. At Arkansas' Fort Smith water system, Lance McAvoy, who oversees the system, told CBS News it's monitored 24/7. "We actually take samples every 15 minutes to verify the online equipment," McAvoy said, adding there had never been an instance of significantly higher fluoride levels to date. Dentists such as Kenton Ross, who also serves as president of Arkansas' dental association, say the science supporting fluoride is indisputable. "You're gonna see a 25% reduction in tooth decay," Ross said of adding fluoride to drinking water. "We have over 75 years of research over community fluoridation." For dentists, losing fluoride could mean losing the battle against tooth decay. "It's gonna affect the children the worst because if they don't get it, we can't put it in later in life," Ross Tin and Sara Moniuszko contributed to this report.
