Utah will become the first state to prohibit fluoride in public drinking water following legislative approval. Governor Spencer Cox announced plans to sign the bill, preventing local governments from deciding whether to fluoridate their water systems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has emphasized fluoride’s role in strengthening teeth and preventing cavities by restoring lost minerals. Research indicates that community water fluoridation reduces tooth decay by approximately 25 percent. Despite this evidence, Utah lawmakers have argued that fluoridation is costly and should not be mandated. Representative Stephanie Gricius, who sponsored the bill, acknowledged fluoride’s benefits but stated that fluoridation should be a matter of individual choice. The decision follows a broader national debate, as some municipalities across the United States have already ceased adding fluoride to drinking water.

The decision has elicited strong reactions from both supporters and opponents. Dental professionals, including the American Dental Association (ADA), have expressed concerns about potential increases in cavities, particularly among children. Experts have warned that communities lacking fluoride in their water may experience higher rates of dental problems. According to data from the CDC, Utah ranks 44th in the United States for fluoridation, with only 66 out of 484 water systems reporting fluoride use in 2024. Public health officials have cautioned that the ban could disproportionately affect low-income individuals, who may not have access to alternative fluoride sources. While fluoride-related health concerns have been raised, the National Institutes of Health has stated that standard levels of fluoridation pose minimal risk. The decision in Utah may set a precedent for other states considering similar legislation.