Why Dental Health Experts Are Rallying to Support Water Fluoridation After RFK Jr.’s Controversial Remarks

Recently, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. spoke against fluoride in drinking water. This has led to pushback from dental health experts who believe fluoride is a vital public health tool.

Fluoride has been a topic of discussion for decades. Dr. Francisco Ramos-Gomez, a pediatric dentistry expert at UCLA, insists that fluoride is safe and effective. He says, "The science is crystal clear. Community water fluoridation has significantly improved public health."

According to the American Dental Association, fluoridated water can reduce cavities by 60% in kids and 20 to 40% in adults. Yet, despite these benefits, Utah recently became the first state to ban fluoride in its public water supply. Kennedy also aims to push for changes in CDC recommendations regarding fluoride.

He questions the need for fluoride in water when many people use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash. However, Dr. Ramos-Gomez points out that both forms of fluoride are beneficial. He explains, "Fluoridated water strengthens teeth from inside the body, while toothpaste works on the surface."

Critics reference a report from the National Toxicology Program that suggests high exposure to fluoride might be linked to lower IQs in children. However, it’s important to note that the children in the study were not from the U.S. and had much higher exposure than the CDC’s recommended levels.

Dr. Tara Narula, a chief medical correspondent for ABC News, remarked on this study. She described it as shaky research due to the high concentrations used. “It’s not clear-cut,” she said, noting that the fluoride levels were almost double what most Americans consume.

Dr. Ramos-Gomez emphasizes that fluoride at the U.S. levels is safe, estimating that optimal fluoride usage can save about $6.5 billion each year in dental care costs.

Currently, around 60% of Americans have access to fluoridated water, including many communities in Los Angeles County. If you’re curious about your local water supply, you can check the CDC’s website for details on fluoride presence in public drinking water.

This ongoing debate over fluoride reflects a broader conversation about public health measures. As we learn more about health and science, perspectives on preventive care strategies like water fluoridation will continue to evolve.

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