City leaders in Camden are asking for public feedback on a decision to keep fluoride in their water system.

Local dentist, Dr. Bob Horton, says he wants to keep the chemical in his city’s water.

“Tooth decay is the number one disease for children,” Horton said.

Medical doctor Ken Berry has a different opinion.

“There’s no doubt it causes dental fluorosis which is spotting and even pitting of the teeth,” Berry said. “About 1 child in 6 will get this.”

Horton says the cost of fluoride is minor compared to the damage residents’ teeth may suffer if the chemical is taken out. He says if fluoride is properly balanced, only one percent of children could be put at risk.

“As a general dentist, I haven’t seen many severe cases at all in the last 20 years,” Horton added.

But just like medical professionals, residents like Cindy Hill and Chris Conn are on the fence about the debate.

“I think its healthy for their teeth and I think everybody needs it,” Hill said.

“I don’t like it at all,” Conn said. “If at all possible I will have him drink bottled water.”

According to Horton, for every dollar of fluoride spent customers save $38 in dental costs, but some residents just aren’t buying it.

“To me it’s not good,” Conn said. “It’s not healthy.”

City board members say the next city meeting for the fluoride hearing is May 12 at Camden City Hall. The hearing is open to the public.

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