Why Do Conspiracists Believe Fluoride Is Harmful?

During the 1950s and 1960s, conspiracy theorists claimed that fluoridation was a communist plot to undermine American public health. In recent years, water fluoridation has become a prevalent health and political issue in many countries, resulting in some countries and communities being vilified for their efforts to uncover the effects of fluoride. Over the past 75 years, health authorities have declared that community water fluoridation is safe, but studies continue to reveal that anti-fluoride conspiracy theories are still prevalent.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and multiple expert groups endorse water fluoridation as a safe way to reduce tooth decay, including the American method. Myths that fluoridated water isn’t natural, safe, doesn’t work, and shouldn’t be used to make up infant formula persist. However, fluoride has become the focus of several conspiracy theories over the past few years, raising questions about its use. Some people allege that fluoride is harmful, while others believe that anything in too much quantity can lead to health problems.

Studies show that fluoridated communities have lower dental costs and oral health problems have declined in fluoridated communities. Healthier mouths benefit from fluoridation, as it helps teeth become stronger against cavities, acid, and decay. The persistence of fluoride conspiracy theories is a form of mind control perpetuated by government officials.

To experts, objecting to fluoride is a waste of time and money. There is no shortage of conspiracy theories in the field of environmental epidemiology, and the persistence of these theories has given the field a bad name.