Back in September 2024, US District Judge Edward Chen ruled that water fluoridation poses an “unreasonable risk” to children’s developing brains. As Judge Chen wrote in his ruling on this years-long case,
there is substantial and scientifically credible evidence establishing that fluoride poses a risk to human health; it is associated with a reduction in the IQ of children and is hazardous at dosages that are far too close to fluoride levels in the drinking water of the United States. And this risk is unreasonable under Amended TSCA. Reduced IQ poses serious harm. Studies have linked IQ decrements of even one or two points to e.g., reduced educational attainment, employment status, productivity, and earned wages.
Consequently, the EPA was ordered to address the risk – presumably by developing new regulations.
“It’s time for the EPA, CDC and other health authorities to stop ignoring the science and start protecting the health of future generations,” added current IAOMT President Yuko Torigoe, DMD. “We need transparent regulations based on the latest research, not outdated practices that put our children at risk.”
But instead of accepting the ruling, the EPA appealed. They argued that the plaintiffs had no standing. They also suggested that Judge Chen had allowed “too much” scientific evidence into the trial.
Late last month, though, the EPA announced that they would be moving ahead with reviewing fluoridation. It’s the first real step they’ve taken towards changing fluoride standards since 1986.
As Reuters reported,
The EPA’s review will focus on fluoride’s effects on brain and tooth development, and “only focus on potential harmful effects and will not consider beneficial effects,” Jess Kramer, EPA assistant administrator for the Office of Water, said in a webinar hosted by the group MAHA Action.
The agency will also launch an online tool with the scientific literature considered in its review, Kramer said.
The EPA has stated that theirs will be “a comprehensive, current, and accurate review of the best available scientific data on fluoride exposure and health effects, conducted with external peer review and public input to inform potential revisions to federal drinking water regulations that bring the nation closer to evidence-based standards that protect future generations.”
That “public input” is being accepted now – and will be through February 27. All the details you need – including how to have a voice in the matter – are available via the Federal Register.
Meantime, the EPA’s appeal is still pending, with oral arguments currently scheduled for this March.
Though there are communities across the country that have taken the initiative to stop adding fluoride to the water supply, in most cases, it remains up to us as individuals to continue to do what’s proven to support strong teeth and good mouth/body heath: good nutrition, smart and consistent home hygiene, and regular dental visits for cleanings and exams.
No swallowing fluoride involved.
For more on the science of fluoride, explore the IAOMT’s Fluoride Facts: Sources, Exposure, and Health Effects.
