It’s no secret that many public water supplies include fluoride as a means of preventing tooth decay. However, recent research has shown that fluoride may be harmful to human health. As a society, it’s important that we consider alternative approaches to promoting oral health that don’t involve mass-medication of the population.

One area of concern when it comes to fluoride is its impact on the microbiome. This refers to the collection of microorganisms that live in our bodies and play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. Fluoride has been shown to disrupt the balance of the oral and gut microbiome, which can lead to a range of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and mental health issues.

It’s vital that we take steps to protect our oral and gut microbiome, and there are many things we can do to minimize the negative effects of fluoride. One approach is to consume probiotics, which are live microorganisms that promote a healthy microbiome. You can find probiotics in foods like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi, as well as in supplements. Another approach is to minimize exposure to fluoride by drinking filtered or bottled water and using fluoride-free toothpaste.

MiBöca Dentistry, is passionate about promoting alternative approaches to promoting oral health that don’t involve adding fluoride to public water supplies. We believe that improving access to dental care, screening for airway-related problems, promoting good nutrition, and encouraging proper oral hygiene practices are all effective ways to prevent tooth decay. We also advocate for more research into the effects of fluoride on the microbiome.

We would be remiss to not mention the dedication and hard work of The Fluoride Action Network. The Fluoride Action Network (FAN) has recently achieved significant milestones in its ongoing efforts to address concerns about fluoride exposure. A landmark victory was secured in a federal lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), compelling the agency to reevaluate and strengthen regulations on fluoride levels in drinking water.

In September 2024, U.S. District Judge Edward Chen ruled that fluoride concentrations commonly found in U.S. drinking water may pose an unreasonable risk to children’s developing brains, particularly concerning potential reductions in IQ levels. This decision mandates the EPA to reassess its fluoride policies to mitigate these risks.

The lawsuit, initiated by FAN alongside other advocacy groups, argued that the EPA had failed to adequately protect public health from the neurotoxic effects of fluoride. Judge Chen’s ruling acknowledged substantial scientific evidence linking fluoride exposure to neurodevelopmental harm, emphasizing the necessity for regulatory action.

This legal victory represents a pivotal moment in FAN’s mission to raise awareness about fluoride’s potential health risks and to advocate for safer public health policies. The organization continues to work towards reducing fluoride exposure and promoting informed decision-making regarding water fluoridation practices.

In short, we care deeply about the potential harm of fluoride on the microbiome and believe that protecting our overall health is of the utmost importance. By taking steps to minimize exposure to fluoride and exploring alternative approaches to promoting oral health, we can help ensure that our communities are as healthy as possible. We are committed to raising awareness of this important issue and advocating for safer, more effective ways to promote oral health. In Nebraska, there’s an active chapter of the Children’s Health Defense organization who’s mission is to protect the welfare and rights of our children. They have been extremely helpful in spreading awareness on the legislative affairs regarding fluoride in the water supply. You can sign up to receive emails about events and advocacy efforts at the link here.