Utah fluoride ban Utah becomes the first state to ban fluoride from its public drinking water. Signed by Republican Governor Spencer Cox on Thursday, the new legislation prohibits the addition of fluoride to the state’s water supply, effective May 7, 2025.
A Differing Choice
Public drinking water has contained added fluoride for many years to help prevent tooth decay and cavities. Fluoridating water is a safe and efficient method of enhancing dental health, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Gov. Cox, however, defended the ruling by claiming that fluoride in drinking water is superfluous and comparing it to compulsory “medication.” He noted the lack of significant variations in dental health reports and highlighted that 43.6% of Utahans currently avoid fluoridated water.
Alternative Sources of Fluoride
The measure permits pharmacists to prescribe fluoride pills as a substitute for fluoride, even though Utah citizens would no longer receive fluoride via their water supply.
Nationwide Fluoride Debate
Utah’s move follows a wave of anti-fluoride sentiments across the country. Similar legislation is also being considered in states including Montana, Tennessee, and North Dakota.
The CDC has long maintained that fluoridated water can prevent cavities in children and adults by up to 30%, despite opposition. However, some argue that fluoridating water is unnecessary since toothpaste, mouthwash, and other oral hygiene products already contain fluoride.
Problems with Health and Misinformation
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and other critics have falsely claimed that fluoride is harmful to health. However, a substantial amount of evidence, including research from the National Cancer Institute, shows no conclusive evidence that fluoridated water increases the risk of cancer.
Theoretically, deadly amounts of fluoride poisoning would require consuming an unfeasible amount of water.
What Happens Next?
The long-term impacts of Utah’s fluoride prohibition are being discussed by policymakers and public health specialists, and they will be continuously assessed. As the state develops, questions still surround how residents will maintain their oral health without fluoridated water.
Source: USA Today
