Aftermath of removing fluoride from water
There are health consequences to ending community water fluoridation, as evidenced in Juneau, Alaska.
As a result of fluoride skepticism and unsubstantiated fear that the mineral could cause unknown health issues, the city of Juneau voted to cease community water fluoridation two decades ago, according to a news report from NPR Illinois.
The decision has limited access to fluoride among Juneau residents to toothpaste or dental visits and has led to an uptick in the incidence of dental decay. A 2018 study revealed that children in Juneau required more restorative dental treatment compared with children residing in the city prior to the removal of fluoride from community drinking water. The significant rise in dental decay has been linked to poorer functioning in school and more expenses for families as well as state and federal programs.
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has indicated that fluoride has been shown to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the risk of dental cavities by about 25%. The experts cited in the article noted that despite recent research demonstrating the possible hazards of exposure to high levels of fluoride, the low levels of fluoride included in U.S. community drinking water do not pose a risk to residents. In spite of the clear effects of lower access to fluoride, officials in Juneau have no current plans to reintroduce fluoride to community drinking water.
Read more: NPR Illinois
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