As the Trump administration considers changes to water fluoridation policies, Tulsa officials remain committed to maintaining fluoride in the city’s drinking water.
U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has expressed intentions to reassess fluoride regulations nationwide, citing new research linking fluoride exposure to IQ loss.
“I am working with Lee Zeldin to reassess the fluoride rules based upon the August release of the national toxicity program of new science that shows a direct correlation with exposure of fluoride and IQ loss,” said Kennedy.
Despite these concerns, organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the American Dental Association continue to endorse water fluoridation as a safe and effective public health measure. Tulsa has adhered to the EPA’s recommended guideline of 0.7 parts per million for over 70 years.
In a statement, Tulsa officials emphasized their commitment to providing clean and safe water that exceeds federal public health standards. Local dentist Dr. Michael Howl also supports the continued use of fluoride, particularly for its benefits to children.
“This is something that is so beneficial to the kids out there. I would hate to see anything change to the fluoridation in our water. The American Dental Association has recommended it. The World Health and other organizations recommend it. If there was really an issue, it would have surfaced long before now,” said Howl.
For now, health officials continue to stand by fluoride as a safe tool for public health.