In a groundbreaking decision, Utah is set to become the first state in the United States to prohibit the addition of fluoride to public drinking water, despite significant opposition from dental experts and national health bodies. Governor Spencer Cox, a Republican, announced his intention to endorse legislation that restricts local jurisdictions from independently choosing to incorporate the mineral into their water systems.
Fluoride, as endorsed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is known for its ability to strengthen teeth and combat cavities by replenishing minerals typically lost through wear. The introduction of fluoride in drinking water has been celebrated as a major public health triumph of the 20th century, with studies indicating it can reduce tooth decay by approximately 25%.
American Dental Association President Brad Kessler, hailing from Denver, emphasized the proven safety and effectiveness of this health measure. He expressed concerns that Utah’s children could soon experience an increase in cavities following the cessation of fluoridation. This decision follows the appointment of federal health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has voiced skepticism regarding water fluoridation.
Governor Cox noted that while the bill wasn’t a high-priority issue for him personally, he intends to sign it into law. The lawmakers advocating for the ban argue that fluoridation is financially burdensome. Representative Stephanie Gricius, a Republican sponsor of the bill, conceded fluoride’s benefits but highlighted the need for “individual choice” in the matter.
Reflecting on his personal experience, Cox mentioned that he, along with many Utahans, was raised in non-fluoridated communities and questioned the necessity of mandating such a preventive measure given the undramatic health differences observed. Currently, over 200 million Americans, equating to about 63% of the population, access fluoridated water.
In recent years, some U.S. cities have discontinued fluoride use, while others are contemplating similar actions. Earlier, a federal ruling instructed the EPA to regulate drinking water fluoride levels due to potential developmental risks in children. An incident in Sandy, Utah, where a fluoride pump failure led to an overdose, prompted some residents to push for this policy change.
Despite the National Institutes of Health’s assurance that harmful fluoride levels are rare, dental professionals like Kessler maintain that the usual additions to water are well below problematic levels. He underscored that the elimination of fluoridation in Utah could inspire other states to adopt similar bans.
Critics of the ban caution that removing fluoride may disproportionately impact low-income communities relying on public water for dental health care, as these populations might struggle to afford regular dental visits or supplemental fluoride products. According to Lorna Koci of the Utah Oral Health Coalition, fluoridation is a cost-effective means to prevent widespread tooth decay.
As of 2022, Utah ranked 44th nationally in fluoridated water access, with only 40% of community system users benefiting. An analysis revealed that among 484 Utah water systems, just 66 reported fluoridation, with Salt Lake City leading this list.
Veteran dentist Rodney Thornell reflected on his experiences in the Salt Lake City area, observing more cavity incidences in patients from non-fluoridated backgrounds compared to those with historical access to fluoridated water. Thornell emphasizes the need for fluoride in light of Utah’s high sugar consumption.
