COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina lawmakers have introduced a bill that would ban the addition of fluoride to public water systems, sparking debate over the impact on oral health.
The legislation aims to prevent utility companies from adding fluoride, citing concerns over potential health risks. Rep. Thomas Gilreath, one of the bill’s sponsors, said, “As a representative for my constituents in District 7, and for the entire state of S.C., it is our duty to ensure the cleanest and safest drinking water for our citizens.”
If passed, South Carolina would join Utah and Florida, which earlier this year became the first states to prohibit fluoride in public drinking water.
Fluoride has been added to U.S. public water systems since the 1940s and is widely supported by dental and public health organizations as a measure to reduce tooth decay. Some dental professionals warn that banning fluoride could harm oral health.
Ainsley Williams, a registered dental hygienist at Dental Care of Rosewood, said fluoride helps prevent cavities, re-mineralizes enamel, and protects teeth against acid. “Research shows fluoride can reduce decay by 20 to 40 percent,” she noted. She also highlighted that fluoride is found naturally in many foods and drinks, making complete avoidance difficult.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has stated that fluoride is harmful only in large amounts and warned that removing it from water could negatively affect oral health.
The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services confirmed that fluoride may naturally occur in drinking water and has historically been added to promote dental health.
It is not yet clear when the bill will be considered in the next legislative session.