Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention State Fluoridation Report *Populations and percentages include only community water systems. Non-community water systems are not included Second, a study from researchers at the University of California’s Keck School of Medicine examined urine samples and neurobehavioral data to see if prenatal fluoride exposure correlates with certain neurobehavioral issues such as emotional reactivity and anxiety. They found a few significant associations between prenatal exposure and neurobehavior; however, the methodology of the paper has been criticized. Dr. Howard Pollick, Professor of Preventative and Restorative Dental Sciences at the University of CaliforniaSan Francisco’s School of Dentistry and member of the ADA’s National Fluoridation Advisory Committee, offered several comments on the paper, referencing its small sample size and a failure to measure actual consumption of fluoridated water. He also suggested that the study should be treated as exploratory. How Can Dentists Respond? It is important to remember that good policy is based on all accumulated scientific evidence. Every single study adds to that body of evidence, but in the world of public health, rarely does a single study provide definitive causal proof of an effect. The ADA’s statement in response to the Keck School study offers a reminder that “There are decades of research and practical experience indicating community water fluoridation is safe and effective.” Additionally, it is worth noting that even if the Keck School study were conclusive proof of an effect, changes to existing recommendations would be narrowly tailored to address only pregnant women. Dentists may contribute to the creation of good public policy in many ways. All dentists are health professionals, responsible for the wellbeing of their patients. One component of that responsibility is health education. Recent events with SB408 and the Keck School of Medicine study are a reminder that public health education is an ongoing task. Not everyone fully understands the benefits of fluoride, and sometimes the findings of a study may be overstated when reported to the public. Dentists are uniquely positioned to help their patients and community members, especially their elected representatives, understand the benefits of fluoride in preventing oral health problems. GDA offers several opportunities to contribute to public health education and advocacy. Law Day 2025, a breakfast where members and students learn about legislative issues before meeting with their legislators, will be on January 28th of the coming year. GDA’s Contact Dentist Program engages local dentists in the work of communicating with local legislators about issues that matter, and the GDA Foundation appreciates the partnership and participation of dental health professionals in their community education and outreach efforts. For dentists looking to make a difference in their community, joining other members of the GDA in education and advocacy is the perfect way to do it. | 15 Sept 2024
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