Unexplainable Are we sure about fluoride?
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May 21, 2025 
Emily Oster, a professor of economics at Brown University and CEO of ParentData, dives into the hot-button issue of fluoride in drinking water. She discusses the polarized views on fluoride's risks versus its dental benefits and the difficulties in reaching consensus in public health debates. Oster reflects on the historical context of fluoride, the challenges in communicating effectively about public health, and the necessity of addressing public concerns in a transparent manner. The conversation navigates fears, misinformation, and the importance of trust in health communication.
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Origin of Water Fluoridation
- In the 1900s, a Colorado dentist noticed brown stains on patients' teeth that correlated with fewer cavities.
- This led to water fluoridation experiments showing significant cavity reduction in children.
Fluoride's Proven Dental Benefits
- Studies strongly support that fluoride reduces cavities and helps dental health significantly.
- Removing fluoride from water, as seen in Israel, has been linked to increased cavity rates.
High Fluoride Risks Exist
- High fluoride levels can impair brain development, particularly in children, with evidence from regions with naturally high fluoride.
- Such levels are much higher than those found in typical U.S. water systems.