Short answer

Fluoride strengthens teeth and lowers cavities when used at recommended levels (CDC). The American Dental Association calls community water fluoridation safe and effective (ADA). Newer research found possible links between much higher fluoride levels and lower IQ in children (National Toxicology Program). Laws about fluoride in water vary by state, and families can choose fluoride-free care if they prefer it.

What the research says

  • The U.S. recommended level for fluoride in community water is 0.7 milligrams per liter, set by the Public Health Service in 2015 (CDC).
  • The CDC reports that fluoridated water lowers cavities by about 25 percent in children and adults (CDC).
  • The American Dental Association views community water fluoridation as a safe and effective way to help lower tooth decay risk (ADA).
  • In August 2024, the National Toxicology Program found, with moderate confidence, that fluoride above 1.5 milligrams per liter may lower children’s IQ (National Toxicology Program).
  • The same 2024 report noted insufficient evidence to determine whether the lower 0.7 milligram per liter level affects children’s IQ (National Toxicology Program).
  • Utah’s HB 81 stops public water systems from adding fluoride, starting May 7, 2025 (Utah Legislature).
  • Florida’s SB 700, effective July 1, 2025, does not name fluoride, but it effectively ends adding fluoride to Florida’s public water systems (Laws of Florida) (ADA News).

Where experts disagree

The American Dental Association maintains that community water fluoridation is safe and effective at recommended levels (ADA). The National Toxicology Program found that much higher fluoride levels may be linked to lower IQ in children, while noting insufficient data on effects at the standard 0.7 milligram level (National Toxicology Program). A federal court ordered the EPA to address fluoridation risk under toxic substances law, and an appeals court later vacated that order and returned the case for further review (Ninth Circuit).

How we handle fluoride choices

At Natural Smiles, Dr. Carlo Litano and our team offer fluoride-free prevention for every age. Fluoride is a personal choice, and we support families either way. For children, Dr. Brittany Nalley leads visits and builds a prevention plan around diet review, hygiene coaching, and snacking rhythm. Sealants are mercury-free and timed to molar eruption, placed without fluoride. For adults, we offer fluoride-free cleanings, and when a tooth needs repair, we use BPA-free ceramic composite. Our office is located in downtown St. Petersburg at 132 Mirror Lake Dr. N. We review your options together so you can decide what feels right for your family.

Sources

  1. CDC, About Community Water Fluoridation
  2. ADA, Fluoride in Water
  3. National Toxicology Program, Fluoride (Aug. 2024)
  4. Utah Legislature, HB 81 Fluoride Amendments (2025)
  5. Laws of Florida, Ch. 2025-22 (SB 700)
  6. ADA News, Florida second state to ban community water fluoridation (May 2025)
  7. Ninth Circuit, Food & Water Watch v. EPA, No. 25-384 (May 21, 2026)

Last updated October 1, 2026.