FDA Moves to Remove Fluoride Supplements for Children Amid Safety Debate

The Food and Drug Administration announced Tuesday its intention to remove fluoride supplements intended for children from the market.

This regulatory action coincides with a growing legislative push to limit fluoride use. Fluoride has long been added to public water supplies to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. In March, Utah became the first state to prohibit fluoridation of public water systems. Similar bills have been introduced in Florida, Louisiana, North Dakota, Tennessee, and Montana. Additionally, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has expressed plans to urge the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to cease recommending fluoride in drinking water.

The FDA stated it will conduct a safety review of fluoride ingestion products for children by October 31, citing possible health concerns, though critics argue these claims lack solid scientific backing.

Dr. Scott Tomar, a public health dentist and oral epidemiologist at the University of Illinois Chicago, criticized the FDA’s move, calling the supporting evidence "extremely weak". He emphasized that public health policies should not be based on limited or inconclusive studies.

Dentists commonly prescribe fluoride tablets, lozenges, and drops for children living in areas without fluoridated water or those at higher risk of tooth decay due to factors such as excessive plaque, irregular dental visits, or family history of dental disease.

These fluoride supplements aim to deliver fluoride doses comparable to what individuals typically receive from fluoridated drinking water.