Fluoride Drinking Water: The debate surrounding the use of fluoride in drinking water has recently intensified, particularly with remarks from President-Elect Donald Trump endorsing Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s controversial stance on removing fluoride from the nation’s water supply. Kennedy, known for his advocacy of food safety and his occasional promotion of conspiracy theories, has made the removal of fluoride a significant part of his policy agenda.
This ongoing discussion hits close to home in Maine, where fluoride’s presence in public water has been a topic of local contention for years. In 2016, residents in the Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, and Wells Water District voted to remove fluoride from their water—a decision that sparked significant debate and remains divisive to this day.
Supporters of fluoridation argue that it plays a crucial role in improving public health by reducing tooth decay and preventing cavities. “Drinking fluoridated water keeps teeth strong and reduces cavities by about 25 percent in children and adults,” said Dr. Puthiery Va, Maine CDC Director. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has even hailed community water fluoridation as one of the top 10 greatest public health achievements of the 20th century.
However, opponents like Kennedy cite studies suggesting that fluoride may contribute to negative health outcomes, including reduced IQ and neurodevelopmental issues, particularly in children. “The study that many people reference used fluoride levels that were twice the recommended amount,” countered Dianne Smallidge, Director of the University of New England Dental Hygiene Program. She emphasized that extensive research supports fluoride’s safety and effectiveness in improving oral health.
Despite these conflicting views, public health officials, including those from Maine’s Drinking Water Program, continue to follow the latest scientific evidence, ensuring that fluoride levels remain safe for public consumption. “We continue to base our work on the science,” Dr. Va stated, underlining the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to fluoride use in drinking water.
As the national debate on fluoride intensifies, Maine remains at the forefront of this public health discussion, with many questioning the future of water fluoridation in the state and beyond. While some argue that modern dental products provide adequate fluoride intake, health experts maintain that adding fluoride to water is an essential tool in preventing oral health issues, particularly in underserved communities where access to dental care is limited.
