Happy Halloween Fellow Netizens!
I hope all you Netizens who celebrate have your costumes ready, especially if you’re going trick-or-treating! Given how many of us take this opportunity to indulge in chocolates and candy (especially with all the post-Halloween discounts), I figured this article should focus on a hotly debated issue that took center stage under the current administration after Robert F. Kennedy (RFK) Jr. took over as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). Without further ado, let’s get to it, shall we?
Fluoride: What is It?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring form of fluorine, an abundant element found throughout the Earth. It is present in the water and air around us, meaning we are naturally exposed to it every day. Fluoride plays a major role in preventing cavities by strengthening tooth enamel (the outermost layer of your teeth) and inhibiting acid production by cavity-causing bacteria. Multiple studies conducted over decades across populations worldwide have demonstrated a strong association between fluoride use and a lower prevalence of cavities, particularly in children and young adults. The maps below compare access to fluoridated water across states with the proportion of children experiencing dental problems, such as caries. These comparisons can help illustrate patterns, although I should note that maps alone cannot establish that fluoridation caused the differences.
Source: https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/articles/2024-12-06/map-fluoride-in-drinking-water-by-state (I highly recommend visiting this website – you can interact with these maps and click on each state for more information!)
In the United States, the practice of adding fluoride to community water supplies began in the 1940s, when trials in small communities were conducted to determine whether fluoridation would noticeably reduce cavities. These trials were so successful that, by 1950, national organizations such as the American Dental Association, the Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors, and the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) had issued statements endorsing community water fluoridation. Since then, products such as fluoridated toothpaste, milk, and salt have been used worldwide as more countries, alongside the United States, have embraced fluoride as a public health tool to protect oral health in children and adults. However, this enthusiasm for fluoride has gradually eroded. Growing distrust of public health institutions among some government leaders and political groups has fueled opposition and efforts to restrict its use.
Fluoride: The Controversy
Fluoride in drinking water became a hot topic in early 2025 as the second Trump administration prepared to take office. The nomination of RFK Jr. brought the issue into the public conversation, particularly when he raised proposals during his Senate confirmation hearings to ban fluoride in drinking water. He also made claims about a range of potential adverse effects regarding fluoride, from cancer to reduced IQ in developing children (see the news brief below for more context).
These claims have gained traction in multiple states across the country. In 2025, Florida and Utah became the first states to pass legislation banning the addition of fluoride to public drinking water. While concerns about excessive fluoride exposure during childhood are valid, particularly regarding dental fluorosis, we need to take a step back and examine the evidence.
- Most recorded cases of dental fluorosis are very mild or mild. One CDC report shows higher recorded rates among children and adolescents in 2011–2016 than in 1999–2004. However, it identifies data-quality concerns that limit conclusions about the size of any true increase. Severe fluorosis was uncommon in both survey periods, which are the cases we need to worry ourselves with.
- Not all children in the United States brush their teeth as recommended. According to a CDC report published in 2019 using data collected in 2013–2016, nearly 80% of children ages 3–15 began having their teeth brushed at age one or later, and approximately one-third brushed only once daily. These findings highlight gaps in recommended brushing practices and the limitations of relying on fluoridated toothpaste alone for cavity prevention.
- Access to fluoridated water is not universal. Rural and small communities may face barriers to implementing and maintaining water fluoridation programs. Underserved communities also face barriers to dental care, including limited access to affordable dental insurance and local dentists. Laws prohibiting community water fluoridation could compound these existing challenges.
Next Steps
With everything we know about the benefits of fluoride, what can fellow Netizens like you do?
- Educate yourselves! Reading this article is a great starting point, but it never hurts to stay informed about the latest medical evidence, preferably through trusted organizations like the American Dental Association or the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.
- Advocacy matters! If there are local or state proposals regarding community water fluoridation, speak up! Writing letters, calling officials’ offices, or attending local council meetings can make a difference, especially if you are an active voter or constituent.
- Practice good oral hygiene! Do your part to protect your oral health and that of your loved ones. I highly recommend watching the video below about preventing cavities and reversing early tooth decay (hint: brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss, and visit your dentist).
Thanks for reading, fellow Netizens, and I hope you all have a spook-tacular Halloween!
Until next time, fellow Netizens!
Featured Photo: Photo by Craig Adderley: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-holding-stick-in-front-of-white-ghost-pinata-1557769/
Disclaimer: This article reflects the author’s own opinions and statements. They do not reflect the opinions or stances of any organization affiliated with the author.
