US Plans to Remove Prescription Fluoride Supplements for Children Amid Growing Controversy

In a significant policy shift, the United States government has announced plans to withdraw prescription fluoride medications for children. This move is part of a broader reevaluation of fluoride's safety and its long-term effects on health. Fluoride has been widely used in the US to prevent tooth decay, added to public water supplies, and incorporated into dental products like toothpaste and mouthwash.

Historically, fluoride in water and other dental products has been credited with reducing cavities and improving dental health. Since the mid-20th century, fluoridation of water has been a common public health practice, with approximately two-thirds of the US population receiving fluoridated tap water. However, controversy surrounding potential health risks has been mounting.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has stated that the FDA is initiating steps to remove concentrated fluoride supplements, such as drops and tablets prescribed to young children at high risk for tooth decay or residing in areas with low fluoride levels in water. The concern stems from studies suggesting links between ingested fluoride and adverse effects, including thyroid disorders, weight gain, lowered IQ, and alterations to the gut microbiome.

The FDA highlighted that these supplements have not been approved for ingestion and are different from fluoride used in toothpaste or rinses, which are not swallowed. While fluoride has played a role in decreasing childhood cavities, recent scientific findings have prompted reevaluation.

In 2024, the HHS concluded there is moderate confidence that higher fluoride exposure correlates with lower IQ scores. A 2025 study published in JAMA Pediatrics further reinforced concerns about fluoride's impact on cognitive development, although clear dosage thresholds remain uncertain.

As a result, some states, including Utah, have already moved to ban fluoridation in public water systems. Critics argue that removing fluoride from water could impact populations with limited dental care access, as fluoride is an essential component of cavity prevention.

Public health officials emphasize that fluoride remains a critical part of oral health strategies, but they acknowledge the need for ongoing research to fully understand its effects. The American Dental Hygienists' Association has expressed concern that eliminating fluoride supplements could hinder efforts to reduce dental decay, especially for underserved communities.

This policy change reflects evolving perspectives on fluoride's safety and effectiveness, highlighting the importance of balanced decisions grounded in scientific evidence.