Florida’s Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo recently advised against adding fluoride to drinking water due to potential “neuropsychiatric risk” associated with fluoride exposure. While fluoride is known to reduce tooth decay and is supported by organizations such as the American Dental Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, concerns about safety and potential health risks have led some communities to opt out of adding fluoride to water systems.
Research on the effects of fluoride exposure, including potential reductions in IQ, is ongoing and evolving. Studies have shown benefits in reducing tooth decay, leading to the widespread addition of fluoride to toothpaste, mouthwashes, and water systems. However, some recent studies have suggested possible negative effects, leading to increased skepticism about the use of fluoride.
Despite the controversy, some communities are working to reintroduce fluoride into their water supply, recognizing the benefits of preventing tooth decay, especially in lower-income families with limited access to dental care. The addition of fluoride to water systems is seen as a public health intervention that can help address disparities in dental care and improve the overall oral health of the population.
The debate over fluoride’s safety and efficacy continues, with ongoing research and concerns raised by some health experts. While the use of fluoride to prevent tooth decay has been a longstanding public health achievement, the potential risks associated with fluoride exposure are prompting further investigation and discussion about its continued use in water systems.
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