As the US Food and Drug Administration prepares to remove fluoride supplements from the market, dental experts are sounding the alarm on potential devastating consequences for oral health in rural communities.
FDA Plan to Ban Fluoride Supplements Sparks Concern Among Dental Experts
The US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) plan to remove fluoride supplements from the market has left many dental experts baffled and alarmed. The move, announced in May 2025, could lead to further oral health decay, particularly in rural areas where access to fluoridated water is limited.
History of Fluoride Supplements
Fluoride tablets and drops have been prescribed to prevent tooth decay in children without access to fluoridated water since the 1940s. These supplements were introduced as a solution to address the lack of fluoride in drinking water, particularly in rural communities.
Fluoride was first discovered in the early 20th century by a dentist named Frederick McKay, who noticed high levels of tooth decay in children living in areas with naturally occurring fluoride-rich water.
In the 1940s, studies showed that communities with fluoridated water had significantly fewer cavities than those without.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) officially endorsed community water fluoridation in 1955, citing a 60-70% reduction in tooth decay rates.
Today, fluoride is added to drinking water in many countries to prevent tooth decay and promote oral health.
FDA‘s Concerns and Controversy
The FDA has expressed concerns about the potential harm caused by fluoride supplements, citing links to thyroid disorders, weight gain, and decreased IQ. However, many dental experts argue that these claims are based on flawed science and that the benefits of fluoride supplements far outweigh the risks.
Impact on Oral Health
Dental experts warn that withdrawing fluoride supplements could lead to a significant increase in oral health problems, particularly among children and people living in rural areas. These communities often have limited access to dental care, making it even more challenging to address oral health issues.
Good oral health is essential for overall well-being. Regular brushing and flossing help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. According to the World Health Organization, over 3.5 billion people suffer from oral diseases worldwide. In the United States alone, nearly 90% of adults have some form of periodontal disease. Brushing teeth at least twice a day and visiting a 'dentist' regularly can significantly reduce these risks.
Scott Tomar, a dentist and epidemiologist at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry, stated that ‘The decision is based on some of the flimsiest evidence I’ve seen.’ Tomar emphasizes that fluoride supplements have proven safe and effective in reducing cavities and promoting oral health.
Scientific Consensus
Despite the FDA‘s concerns, many experts agree that the scientific evidence does not support the claim that fluoride supplements are detrimental to human health. In fact, numerous studies have shown that fluoride is beneficial for oral health and has been widely used as a treatment for tooth decay.
Fluoride is a naturally occurring compound that plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health.
Its benefits extend beyond cavity prevention, including strengthening tooth enamel and reversing early stages of tooth decay.
Research suggests that communities with fluoridated water have significantly lower rates of tooth decay compared to those without.
Additionally, fluoride has been shown to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and other bone diseases by promoting calcium absorption.
The American Dental Association has also pushed back against the FDA‘s interpretation of the science, stating that ‘A review of the studies offered… does not in fact demonstrate any harmful effects for the concentrations of fluoride prescribed by physicians and dentists.’
- sciencenews.org | FDA plan to ban fluoride supplements baffles and alarms dental experts
