TAVARES, Fla. – The city of Tavares could decide to remove fluoride from its drinking water systems after recent guidance from the Florida Department of Health.
At a meeting on Wednesday, the city council will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of removing the compound that has been shown to reduce tooth decay.
Last month, Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo announced a recommendation against community water fluoridation because of possible risks from high exposure levels.
Ladapo said a main concern for fluoride exposure is its potential neuropsychiatric effects on pregnant women and children.
“It is clear more research is necessary to address safety and efficacy concerns regarding community water fluoridation,” Ladapo said in a statement. “The previously considered benefit of community water fluoridation does not outweigh the current known risks, especially for special populations like pregnant women and children.”
According to the health department, more than 70% of Floridians live in places where water is fluoridated.
Dr. Nicholas Potter, a dentist at Tavares Dental, said the complete removal of fluoride from drinking water could have a negative impact.
“Fluoride strengthens the tooth and prevents tooth decay,” Potter said. “It’s reduced cavities in underserved populations for millions and millions of people. I feel that removing it might be detrimental to those who are most vulnerable, like in our lower income communities.”
Tavares Vice Mayor Lori Pfister said city leaders will hear from several experts and the public before making a decision on the possible removal of fluoride from drinking water.
“We have a lot of people who want it out and we have a lot who want it left in,” Pfister said. “We’re just going to have to see. I always go in open-minded and I’m willing to listen to all sides.”
The issue will be discussed during the city council meeting at 4 p.m. Wednesday.