The Fluoride Conspiracy: What Is It?

The water fluoridation controversy stems from political, ethical, economic, and health concerns regarding the fluoridation of public water supplies. International and national agencies and dental associations worldwide support the safety and efficacy of fluoridation, while anti-fluoride activists have made conspiracy theories about fluoride’s potential cancer-causing effects. The debate has evolved from conspiracy theories in the 1940s and 50s to a science-based debate.

Laboratory studies and animal experiments suggest that fluoride can trigger cancer, but extensive epidemiological investigations in fluoridated and non-fluoridated water have shown no significant difference. The idea of fluoridation being used to pacify Jews during World War II is a reason for Florida county’s decision to cut fluoride out of its drinking water.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and multiple expert groups endorse water fluoridation as a safe way to reduce tooth decay. A court found “substantial and scientifically credible evidence” of fluoride’s risk but did not conclusively conclude that fluoride is harmful to public health. As misinformation campaigns target fluoride in water, communities are reversing mandates, leading dentists and parents to feel caught in the middle.

A federal judge has ordered the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to further regulate fluoride in drinking water due to potential risks. Fluoride treatment is crucial in strengthening tooth enamel and preventing tooth decay. Despite thousands of studies showing fluoride prevents cavities, 74 cities have voted to remove fluoride from their drinking water. New research shows that topical fluoride from toothpastes, mouth rinses, and fluoride treatments is important for helping adult teeth fight decay.