Utah will be the first state to prohibit fluoride in public drinking water. Governor Spencer Cox has confirmed plans to sign the bill, preventing local governments from deciding on fluoridation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) asserts that fluoride strengthens teeth and prevents cavities. Research suggests that community water fluoridation reduces tooth decay by 25 percent. However, Utah lawmakers argue that fluoridation is costly and should not be mandatory. Representative Stephanie Gricius, the bill’s sponsor, recognizes fluoride’s benefits but insists it should remain a personal choice. This decision aligns with a wider national debate, as some U.S. municipalities have already ended fluoridation.

The decision has provoked strong reactions from both supporters and critics. Dental professionals, including the American Dental Association (ADA), warn of increased cavities, especially among children. Experts predict higher dental issues in fluoride-free communities. According to CDC data, Utah ranks 44th in fluoridation, with only 66 out of 484 water systems using fluoride in 2024. Public health officials caution that the ban may disproportionately impact low-income individuals. While some raise fluoride-related health concerns, the National Institutes of Health states that standard fluoridation poses minimal risk. Utah’s decision may set a precedent for other states considering similar legislation.