Fluoride in water prevents some cavities but concern about health risks raises questions about the tradeoffs

The article highlights the debate over fluoridating public drinking water, a practice started in 1945 to prevent tooth decay. While it once showed significant benefits, a recent Cochrane report suggests that the impact is now minimal due to other fluoride sources like toothpaste, questioning its current necessity.

Concerns about potential health risks have emerged, including links between prenatal fluoride exposure and neurodevelopmental issues such as lowered IQ in children. A federal judge ordered the EPA to review regulations, though evidence of harm at current levels remains inconclusive.

Despite the debate, health organizations like the CDC and American Dental Association still endorse fluoridation as a safe, cost-effective method for preventing cavities. They argue that recent studies have limitations and that low fluoride levels do not pose significant health risks.