Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said Thursday that banning fluoride in drinking water will likely result in more cavities.
“It’s a balance,” Kennedy told Fox News. “You’re going to see probably slightly more cavities. Although in Europe, where they ban fluoride, they did not see an uptick in cavities. The issue is parents need to decide because the science is very clear on fluoride.”
While the European Union (EU) does not have a blanket policy requiring water fluoridation, its Scientific Committee on Health and Environmental Risks has reviewed both the benefits and risks of fluoride use. According to the committee, fluoride is “beneficial to prevent dental caries,” but it also notes that the development of tooth decay is multifactorial. Risk factors include oral hygiene habits, diet (especially the consumption of fermentable carbohydrates), overall health, and socioeconomic and educational status.
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Water fluoridation in Europe varies. Ireland fluoridates its water nationally, while some regions in Spain and the United Kingdom also add fluoride. Levels typically range from 0.2 to 1.2 milligrams per litre (mg/L).
In both Canada and the United States, dental associations recommend fluoride levels of 0.7 mg/L in drinking water. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises that naturally occurring fluoride in water should not exceed 1.5 mg/L, based on an average daily intake of two litres. For artificially fluoridated water, the WHO recommends an upper limit of 1.0 mg/L.
Kennedy has been a vocal opponent of fluoridation since assuming his role as health secretary, claiming the mineral is linked to health concerns, including reduced IQ in children. In April, Florida became the second U.S. state to ban community water fluoridation, following Utah.
In an April meeting with former president Donald Trump, Kennedy reportedly said children become “stupider” with increased fluoride intake.
Kennedy’s stance has drawn criticism. A recent study published in JAMA Health Forum found that removing fluoride from community water systems could lead to increased tooth decay among children and an estimated US$9.8 billion in additional dental treatment costs over five years.
