Utah's Bold Move: No More Fluoride in Public Water

Utah has made a significant change to its public water supply. The state has become the first to stop adding fluoride to its drinking water. This decision has sparked debate, with some health experts expressing concern. They worry that this move could lead to more dental issues and negatively impact low-income communities. The decision came from a law signed by Governor Cox. This law prevents cities and towns from choosing to add fluoride to their water. Those who supported the ban argued that adding fluoride is too costly. Governor Cox, who grew up without fluoridated water, compared it to being "medicated" by the government. Fluoride is known for strengthening teeth and reducing cavities. It works by replacing minerals lost during normal wear and tear. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention supports its use. Despite this, Utah lawmakers pushed for the ban, citing expense as a major factor. This ban comes just weeks after a new U. S. Health Secretary took office. He has publicly questioned the benefits of water fluoridation. Other states, including Florida, Ohio, Tennessee, and Kentucky, have also considered similar restrictions. However, proposals in New Hampshire and North Dakota were recently rejected. Fluoridation is widely recognized as an effective way to prevent tooth decay on a large scale. About two-thirds of the U. S. population receives fluoridated water. This practice has been hailed as one of the greatest public health achievements of the last century. However, some cities have removed fluoride from their water, and more are considering it. A federal judge recently ordered the Environmental Protection Agency to regulate fluoride levels. This order came after concerns that high levels could affect children's intellectual development. The American Dental Association and the National Institutes of Health have both stated that standard levels of fluoride are safe. They argue that toxic doses are rare and usually result from accidents. Opponents of the ban argue that it will disproportionately affect low-income residents. These residents may rely on public water as their only source of preventive dental care. They may not be able to afford regular dentist visits or fluoride supplements. The sponsor of the Utah legislation acknowledged fluoride's benefits but insisted it was a matter of individual choice. In Utah, only a small number of water systems add fluoride to their water. The largest of these is Salt Lake City. In 2022, Utah ranked 44th in the nation for the percentage of residents receiving fluoridated water. This ranking highlights the limited reach of fluoridation in the state.