Removing Fluoride From Water Could Result in 25 Million Cavities and Cost $9.8 Billion, Study Estimates

Fluoride in drinking water has long been regarded as a critical public health intervention to prevent tooth decay. However, recent debates about its safety and necessity have led some communities to consider removing fluoride from their water supplies. According to a new study reported by CBS News, the consequences of such a decision could be staggering – potentially causing 25 million new cavities nationally and $9.8 billion in additional dental-related healthcare costs.

Understanding Fluoride’s Role in Dental Health

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent tooth decay. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has named water fluoridation one of the “10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.” When fluoride is added to community water supplies at optimal levels (around 0.7 mg/L), it significantly reduces the incidence of dental cavities among people of all ages.

How Fluoride Works

• Reinforces enamel: Fluoride helps remineralize tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria.
• Reduces cavity-causing bacteria: It inhibits the ability of harmful oral bacteria to produce acids that erode teeth.
• Prevents early decay: Fluoride can arrest or reverse early stages of tooth decay.

The Study’s Findings: Economic and Health Impacts

The recent research analyzed what would happen if water fluoridation was removed in the United States. Here are the key estimates from the study:

Increased cavities lead to more fillings, root canals, tooth extractions, and other costly dental treatments. The financial burden would be felt by individuals, insurance companies, and public health programs alike.

Benefits of Maintaining Fluoridated Water

Fluoridated water continues to be a safe, effective, and equitable means of reducing dental decay across socioeconomic groups. Some of the top benefits include:

• Cost-Effective Prevention: Fluoridation saves an estimated $38 in dental treatment costs for every $1 spent on maintaining the program.
• Reduces Oral Health Disparities: Ensures low-income families have access to cavity prevention regardless of dental care access.
• Supports Children’s Health: Prevents tooth decay that can affect learning, nutrition, and social well-being.
• Community-Wide Impact: Benefits everyone who drinks tap water, regardless of age or dental hygiene practices.

Additional Health Insights

Over decades of research, the levels of fluoride used in water fluoridation have shown no credible link to harmful health effects when maintained within recommended levels. The CDC, the American Dental Association (ADA), and the World Health Organization endorse fluoridation as safe and effective.

Practical Tips for Protecting Your Dental Health

Whether or not your community fluoridates water, good oral hygiene practices remain essential. Consider the following tips to keep cavities at bay:

• Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.
• Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks that contribute to decay.
• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
• If your water is not fluoridated, talk to your dentist about fluoride supplements or treatments.

Case Study: The Impact of Fluoride Removal on a Community

One notable example is the city of Portland, Oregon, which discontinued water fluoridation in 2013. In the years following, public health officials observed a subtle but steady rise in the rates of childhood cavities and dental treatment costs. This real-world example aligns closely with the projections from the CBS News study — highlighting the tangible risks of removing fluoride from water systems.

Conclusion: Why Fluoride Removal Isn’t Worth the Risk

Removing fluoride from public water supplies might seem appealing to some groups concerned about chemical additives, but the evidence paints a clear picture: the public health and economic consequences could be devastating. An estimated 25 million more cavities and nearly $10 billion in additional dental care costs underscore fluoride’s vital role in protecting oral health nationwide.

Policymakers, communities, and individuals alike should carefully weigh the benefits of water fluoridation against unfounded fears. Maintaining optimal fluoride levels in drinking water remains one of the most effective, economical, and equitable ways to improve dental health and prevent costly cavities for millions of Americans.

Stay informed about your local water quality and dental health practices. Your smile (and your wallet) will thank you!