Dentists react to FDA ban on fluoride supplements
Dental experts, including Scott Tomar, D.M.D., Dr.P.H., a dentist and epidemiologist at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry as well as the community water fluoridation spokesperson for the ADA, expressed confusion and concern regarding the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s decision to ban the use of fluoride supplements.
The FDA cited the risk of gut dysbiosis, thyroid disease, weight gain and lower IQs in its reasoning for banning the fluoride supplements and stated it will investigate these risks, according to a news report from Science News. However, Dr. Tomar indicated that the risks listed by the FDA are based on low-quality and insubstantial data from foreign countries where the exposure to fluoride is far greater than the recommended limits in the United States. He explained that fluoride supplements have been shown to be safe and effective at reducing cavities for decades.
“A review of the studies offered does not in fact demonstrate any harmful effects for the concentrations of fluoride prescribed by physicians and dentists,” the ADA said in a statement.
The move also followed in the wake of the cessation of community water fluoridation in Utah and Florida, decisions that may be adopted by several other states. Dr. Tomar stressed that a lack of access to the fluoride supplements could exacerbate the prevalence of oral health issues in the United States, particularly among children and individuals residing in rural areas with little to no fluoride in their drinking water.
Read more: Science News
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