The Thermopolis (Wy.) Town Council voted to remove fluoride from its drinking water, joining other cities in the U.S. that have ended or are considering ending water fluoridation.
Five notes:
1. The city stopped adding fluoride to its water supply Dec. 12.
2. National debate about water fluoridation reached new heights this year after the National Toxicology Program concluded in a report that higher levels of fluoride exposure are associated with lower IQ in children. However, the report has been contested by several organizations.
3. Mayor Adam Estenson said in an opinion piece published in the Thermopolis Independent Record that a key issue for him was deciding whether it is the government’s role to provide fluoride to residents regardless of individual needs and vulnerabilities.
4. Mr. Estenson said fluoride is a "valuable tool in maintaining dental health," but that alternative fluoride treatments such as toothpaste and dental visits are more effective and provide a more individualized approach.
5. The mayor said the decision was made with input from experts, residents and public health officials.
To see a timeline of fluoride-related activity in other states and cities this year, click here.