State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo Issues Community Water Fluoridation Guidance

Tallahassee, Fla.—Today, State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo announced guidance recommending against community water fluoridation due to the neuropsychiatric risk associated with fluoride exposure. Fluoride is a naturally occurring chemical compound present in groundwater, fresh and salt water, rainwater, soil, plants, and foods. Community water fluoridation is the process of adjusting the amount of fluoride in drinking water to a level recommended to prevent tooth decay. Historically, community water fluoridation was considered to be a method to systemically, through ingestion, deliver fluoride to all community members. However, currently many municipalities across the U.S. and several European countries, including Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, and Sweden, have eliminated water fluoridation. Today, fluoride is widely available from multiple sources, including topical fluorides, such as toothpaste, mouthwashes, and fluoride applications by dental providers. Evidence shows fluoride strengthens teeth, making them more decay resistant. However, additional research is being conducted to review the impacts of overall fluoride exposure in the population. Floridians should be aware of safety concerns related to systemic fluoride exposure including: