If you follow US news (I am tempted to say « misinformation »), you will have heard of fluoride, a mineral that occurs naturally in foods and water. JFK Jr, who might be the USA next health secretary, called it « an industrial waste » and linked it to various health conditions. But what does the Science and Public Health really say?
Water fluoridation, the controlled addition of fluoride to public water supplies, is widely recognised as a key public health measure for preventing dental decay. Here is why it is beneficial:
Fluoride prevents tooth decay
Before widespread fluoridation, dental infections were a leading cause of death. Even today in the UK, where (and probably because) fluoridation is not a public health policy, tooth decay is a significant and costly preventable health problem.
Poor dental health can significantly impact general health and wellbeing, especially in children:
- Chronic pain affects speech, concentration and learning,
- Systemic inflammation is linked to cognitive impairment,
- Nutritional deficiencies can arise from difficulty eating,
- Sleep disruption affects memory and attention, and more generally academic performance,
Fluoride in water and toothpaste works alongside regular dental hygiene and a healthy diet, providing an extra layer of protection against decay.
At recommended levels (0.7–1.2 mg/L), fluoride is safe. Leading health organisations, including the WHO, NHS, and CDC, support its use, based on a comprehensive body of evidence regarding its safety and cost-effectiveness.
Fluoridation is a cost-effective measure that benefits all socioeconomic groups
Water fluoridation provides equal protection to everyone, children and adults, regardless of income or access to dental care. This is particularly important for lower-income populations who may struggle with dental expenses. As such, it contributes to reducing the gap in oral health between different socioeconomic groups.
Compared to treating cavities and other dental issues, fluoridation is a low-cost intervention: for every £1 spent on fluoridation, it saves around £25 in dental treatment costs.
While ongoing research into fluoride’s effects is essential, the scientific consensus is clear: water fluoridation at recommended levels is safe and effective, whatever JFK Jr or fearmongering influencers tell you.
Other sources of fluoride include: egg, leafy vegetables, fish, rock salt.