On Friday, Florida’s Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo advised against adding fluoride to drinking water, citing what he referred to as “neuropsychiatric risk associated with fluoride exposure.” While acknowledging fluoride’s role in reducing tooth decay by strengthening teeth, Ladapo raised concerns about potential safety risks, including a possible link to lowered IQ.
Although some studies have suggested such a connection, these findings are still considered preliminary. Major health organizations, including the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the CDC, continue to support water fluoridation, citing its effectiveness in reducing tooth decay by 25%. Despite this, a growing number of communities have opted out of fluoridation, citing health concerns.
The debate surrounding fluoride’s safety has intensified in recent years, with some scientists questioning its long-term effects.
Dr. Bruce Lanphear, a professor of health sciences, pointed to evidence suggesting that fluoride may not be as safe as once believed. His 2019 study, which found a correlation between fluoride exposure during pregnancy and lower IQs in children, has contributed to the ongoing discussion.
Despite these concerns, there are still calls for fluoride to be reintroduced in communities where it has been removed, as in Buffalo, New York, where residents sought its return after realizing it had been missing since 2015.
Public health experts argue that fluoridation helps address disparities in dental care, particularly for children from lower-income families who face higher rates of untreated cavities.
However, as investigations into fluoride’s safety continue, the debate remains unresolved.
Peoplesmind
