By Hunter Boyce, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Fluoride is a common mineral found in toothpaste and drinking water, but some states are considering banning its addition to water supplies, much to the concern of local dental experts.
A recent study has revealed the potential consequences of banning fluoride on a larger scale, particularly for children and their parents. The findings suggest that such a ban could result in billions of dollars in additional dental bills and millions of new cavities, presenting a significant challenge for public health.
Researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard School of Dental Medicine conducted a projection using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Their analysis predicted that a nationwide fluoride ban could lead to a $9.8 billion increase in dental costs within the first five years, with a substantial rise in cavities among children.
The study estimated that there would be 25.4 million more cavities reported in children within the first five years of a nationwide fluoride ban, representing a 7.5% increase in cases. By the tenth year, the projected additional costs could reach $19.4 billion with 53.8 million new cavities.
Local dentists, such as Cary Goldstein from Sandy Springs, Georgia, have expressed concerns about the potential impact of ending fluoridation. Goldstein warned that eliminating fluoride from water could lead to a surge in dental issues and significant costs for families in the long run.
Fluoridation of water has been a common practice in the United States for decades, with the CDC recognizing it as a key strategy for cavity prevention. However, some states, including Florida and Utah, have recently passed measures to ban fluoride in public drinking water, citing concerns about overexposure and individual choice.
Despite debates about fluoride safety and effectiveness, studies have shown that maintaining fluoride levels within recommended concentrations can offer both individual and societal benefits. The current CDC recommendation of a maximum 0.7 mg/L fluoride concentration in drinking water is considered safe and beneficial for oral health.
As the discussion around fluoride continues, it remains essential to balance potential risks with the proven benefits of fluoridation in promoting dental health and preventing cavities.
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