SHREVEPORT, La. (KSLA) – Shreveport’s water system has been without fluoride for about a week, Mayor Tom Arceneaux said.
City leaders say the shortage stems from a nationwide supply chain issue and is temporary.
Pediatrician says short-term gap unlikely to cause harm
Dr. Randall White, Jr., a Shreveport pediatrician, said fluoride is an element added to water that helps strengthen teeth.
“Fluoride is an element that’s added to water. When we drink the water that contains fluoride, it helps strengthen our teeth, which is very important for dental health in children and adults,” White said.
White said a temporary disruption in fluoride addition to the water supply probably won’t cause long-term issues.
“However, if it does continue for weeks and weeks and months and months, I do expect that we could see a rise in more dental disease in children,” White said.
Other layers of protection
White said fluoride is one layer of protection for teeth. Dentists apply fluoride in varnish form, and White said more pediatricians are now offering it as well.
“Many pediatricians’ offices will apply fluoride in the office… there’s multiple layers that we have to help strengthen children’s teeth,” White said.
White said tooth disease and cavities can lead to missed school and other activities.
“Children who have tooth disease and who have cavities and have the pain that goes along with it — that often leads to missing school days, missing sports practice, not being able to focus, not being able to learn,” White said.
Doctor’s advice during shortage
White said families should continue basic dental care while the water supply issue is resolved.
“I would use it as a reminder to make sure your children are getting their teeth brushed twice a day, that they’re going to the dentist, that they’re going to the pediatrician and having their mouth examined, because that’s important as well,” White said.
Doctors say routine checkups matter now more than ever. Fall break is a good time to get children in for a dentist visit.
Original article online at: https://www.ksla.com/2026/09/07/nationwide-shortage-leaves-shreveport-water-without-fluoride/