The Fluoride Paradox: Water, Teeth, and IQ

For decades, fluoride in tap water has been hailed as one of America’s greatest public-health wins. But a new wave of scientific concern is reshaping the debate. In this episode, we explore the complicated story behind water fluoridation—how it protects teeth, why some communities are now reconsidering it, and what a 2024 review linking high fluoride levels to lower IQ in children really means. Public-health experts urge caution, noting that the evidence is far from settled and that fluoridated water remains a crucial safety net for people with limited access to dental care. We also break down where fluoride actually shows up in our lives — from tea and coffee to the toothpaste that delivers the most effective dose. At the heart of it all is a question of equity: how do we protect public dental health while navigating uncertain science?https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2025/03/14/what-is-the-best-way-to-keep-your-teeth-healthy