Study projects removing fluoride from public water would cost billions

Taking fluoride out of public water systems across the country would result in millions more rotten teeth and cost $9.8 billion over five years, according to a new study.

The study, published in JAMA Health Forum, found that if all 50 states removed fluoride from public water systems, kids would develop 25.4 million more decayed teeth over five years. The study noted that "tooth decay would disproportionately affect publicly insured and uninsured children compared to those with private dental insurance."

After 10 years, the total number of decayed teeth would increase to 53.8 million at a cost of $19.4 billion, according to the study.

The simulation model used the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data of 8,484 participants.

It noted that "excessive fluoride exposure can cause mottled discoloration of the teeth" and that fluoride "becomes a neurotoxin at high levels." The study further stated that "natural sources of drinking water with high levels of fluoride are associated with lower IQ scores."

https://justthenews.com/nation/states/center-square/study-projects-removing-fluoride-public-water-would-cost-billions