Dental Stocks Gain as RFK Jr. Sparks Fluoride Debate

Shares in dental supply company Henry Schein shot up on Monday, with investors anticipating changes in public health policies under a potential new administration. The move was sparked by the appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as a contender for the Health and Human Services role. Kennedy's previous stance against fluoride in water has led investors to believe that removing fluoride could boost dental visits, thus benefiting dental care suppliers. Companies like Dentsply Sirona and Envista also saw modest gains. Kennedy's pre-election statement on a social media platform hinted at a Trump administration advising all U. S. water systems to remove fluoride, a mineral known for preventing cavities but a point of contention in some communities. Analysts at Gordon Haskett suggested that if Kennedy's policies are implemented, dental hygiene product makers could see increased demand. Reducing fluoride in drinking water might accelerate tooth decay, driving more people to seek dental care. This potential shift in public health policy is seen as a positive for dental stocks, despite broader market struggles. The broader healthcare sector has faced challenges, with the Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund dropping about 3. 5% in November. By contrast, the S&P 500 has risen over 3%. However, dental stocks have been more resilient, with some even gaining amid the uncertainty surrounding Kennedy's nomination. Bilson, head of event-driven research at Gordon Haskett, noted that while the market is reacting to Kennedy's nomination, actual policy changes could take years. He also pointed out that drinking water regulations might fall more under the Environmental Protection Agency than Health and Human Services.