Florida's Take on Fluoridated Water

Although many people think of fluoride as something that you find in toothpaste, it is also something commonly seen in water. Fluorine, the element the mineral is made up of, is vital to maintaining proper dental hygiene as they provide the teeth the minerals they need to stay strong and prevent cavities. As of a couple days ago, Florida is in the process of becoming the second state to ban fluoride in their drinking water, following a similar measure by Utah, whose bill is about to be implemented- on May 7th. The reason their state government has given is that its consumption could lead to lower intelligence ( and IQ), as well as it being a waste of money getting it integrated into everyone’s water. On the contrary, dentists and public health experts from across the country feel that this isn’t the right move because the mineral is a helpful and easy way for people to consume it and prevent cavities from arising. The CDC also believes that there hasn’t been any negative effects from fluoridated water; it doesn't raise anyone’s risk for a disease, whether it be Alzheimers, Down Syndrome, or cancer. Whether or not you believe in having fluoridated water, it is important to drink sufficient amounts of clean water to stay hydrated, especially as we are nearing the heat of summer. 

Works Cited

"Florida set to become second state to ban fluoride in public water." NBC News, 29 Apr. 2025, www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/florida-set-become-second-state-ban-fluoride-public-water-rcna203555. Accessed 3 May 2025.

"Florida to become second state to ban fluoride in water, alarming experts." The Guardian, 30 Apr. 2025, www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/apr/30/florida-fluoride-water-ban. Accessed 3 May 2025.