Study Warns US Fluoride Ban Could Cost $9.8 Billion, Add 25 Million Decayed Teeth

A growing movement to ban fluoride in public water, championed by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who claims fluoride harms children's brain development, has raised significant public health concerns. Scientific consensus and new studies strongly counter these claims, emphasizing that fluoride in drinking water has been a critical factor in reducing childhood tooth decay since the mid-20th century. Recent research published in JAMA Health Forum and conducted by Harvard and Mass General Brigham researchers projects that a nationwide fluoride ban would lead to a 7.5% increase in dental cavities among children, translating to over 25 million additional decayed teeth and nearly $10 billion more in dental care costs within five years. These studies highlight that the health and financial burdens would disproportionately affect children on public insurance and lower-income families who rely on community water fluoridation for dental health benefits. Experts maintain that current fluoride levels are carefully regulated to maximize dental benefits while minimizing risks, and warnings about IQ loss generally pertain to fluoride levels far exceeding those in public water supplies. The debate exemplifies tensions between scientific evidence and political influence, with public health officials cautioning against rolling back a proven preventive measure based on unsubstantiated claims.