How to protect your teeth after the fluoridation ban: DHHS offers tips

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — The Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is encouraging Utahns to take action before fluoride is removed from drinking water next week.

H.B. 81, Fluoride Amendments, goes into effect on May 7 and will prohibit fluoridation in any public water systems across the state. The bill also allows pharmacists to prescribe fluoride tablets for those who want fluoridation.

Ahead of the ban, DHHS is providing Utahns with more information about fluoride and oral health. They also expressed their concerns that this will impact roughly 1.6 million Utahns in Salt Lake County, Davis County, and Brigham City.

“Access to accurate, evidence-based information remains essential for protecting the health of all Utahns. Oral health is a critical component of overall well-being, and we are committed to ensuring communities — especially those who may be most impacted by this change — continue to have the support and education needed to maintain good dental health,” Dr. Stacey Bank, executive medical director at DHHS, is quoted in a press release.

DHHS explains that fluoride is “a natural mineral that helps protect your teeth and bones.” They also state that there is a natural amount of fluoride found in drinking water, but it is not generally enough to provide the benefits that protect teeth. DHHS says Utahns can contact their public water system provider and ask about natural fluoride levels in the drinking water.

Utahns are also recommended to complete a regular dental check-up every six months. For children six months and older, DHHS recommends fluoride varnishes two to four times a year to prevent cavities. Fluoride supplements are also recommended for children between the ages of six months and 16 years.

“We recognize the benefits of fluoride to overall health. While community water fluoridation will no longer be available, there are measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing cavities… We encourage Utahns to have regular checkups with a dentist or healthcare provider to make sure they are doing everything they can to protect their oral health,” said Dr. Stacey Swilling, state dental director at DHHS.

Although fluoride is most effective for children and teens, DHHS has recommendations for ensuring oral health in everybody, regardless of age.

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste 2 times a day.
• Floss your teeth before you go to bed.
• Limit the amount of sugar you eat or drink.
• Quit tobacco and nicotine use — including vaping. These products can increase the risk of gum disease, infections in your mouth, and tooth loss.

For more information on fluoride, visit the DHHS website on oral health. Utahns who need a dentist can also find low-cost dental clinics near them through the link.