Utah Bans Fluoride in Water

Keegan McLeod

Staff Writer

In a groundbreaking move, Utah has become the first state in the U.S. to ban fluoride in public drinking water. Governor Spencer Cox signed the legislation on March 27, effectively prohibiting cities and communities from adding fluoride to their water systems. The ban is set to take effect on May 7.

Fluoride was first implemented into public drinking water in 1945, and about 63% of the U.S. population has access to fluoridated water today. Fluoride has long been recognized for its dental health benefits, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), citing its role in reducing cavities by at least 25% across all age groups.

The American Dental Association (ADA), has criticized Utah’s decision, emphasizing that fluoridation is one of the most cost-effective public health measures to prevent tooth decay.​

Officials from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), claim that it is nearly impossible to find a toxic dose of fluoride in water, but there have been common cases of streaking or spottiness on teeth since the chemical occurs more naturally in some water sources.

The American Cancer Society says that long-term exposure to high levels of fluoride consumption can increase risk of developing skeletal fluorosis, in which chemicals break down bone structures and increase fracture risks. There are no proven links to increased cancer risk.

Proponents of the ban, including Representative Stephanie Gricius, argue that the decision empowers individuals to make personal health choices. Gricius acknowledged the dental benefits of fluoride, but she also emphasized the importance of individual autonomy in health decisions.

Governor Cox, who grew up in a community without fluoridated water, stated that he did not see drastically different dental outcomes compared to areas with fluoridation.​ However, critics warn that the ban may disproportionately affect low-income residents who rely on fluoridated public water as their primary source of dental care. Without access to fluoridated water, these individuals may face increased dental health challenges.​

The decision has sparked discussions in other states, with lawmakers in Florida, Ohio, Tennessee, and Kentucky considering similar measures. Conversely, proposals in New Hampshire and North Dakota have been rejected. ​

As Utah sets this precedent, the future of water fluoridation in the U.S. may be subject to increased scrutiny and debate, balancing public health benefits against individual rights and local governance. With full pun intention, that is what the issue boils down to.