[{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/iaomt.org\/the-impact-of-fluoride-on-childrens-developing-brains-a-review-of-nih-studies-and-public-health-policy\/#Article","mainEntityOfPage":"https:\/\/iaomt.org\/the-impact-of-fluoride-on-childrens-developing-brains-a-review-of-nih-studies-and-public-health-policy\/","headline":"The Impact of Fluoride on Children\u2019s Developing Brains: A Review of NIH Studies and Public Health Policy","name":"The Impact of Fluoride on Children\u2019s Developing Brains: A Review of NIH Studies and Public Health Policy","description":"Ten significant studies have explored the adverse effects of fluoride, bringing attention to the precautionary principle in public health policy. This article delves into these findings, contrasts them with responses from the American Dental Association (ADA), and discusses the challenges in changing public health policies due to vested interests.","datePublished":"2024-07-20","dateModified":"2024-11-01","author":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/iaomt.org\/author\/moore\/#Person","name":"International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology","url":"https:\/\/iaomt.org\/author\/moore\/","identifier":1240,"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/iaomt.org\/wp-content\/litespeed\/avatar\/bfc92e3fae46f1c852ba2a2990470c47.jpg?ver=1774977747","url":"https:\/\/iaomt.org\/wp-content\/litespeed\/avatar\/bfc92e3fae46f1c852ba2a2990470c47.jpg?ver=1774977747","height":96,"width":96}},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"The International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/iaomt.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IAOMT-Schema-app-logo.jpg","url":"https:\/\/iaomt.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IAOMT-Schema-app-logo.jpg","width":120,"height":60}},"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/iaomt.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-Impact-of-Fluoride-on-Childrens-Developing-Brains.jpg","url":"https:\/\/iaomt.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-Impact-of-Fluoride-on-Childrens-Developing-Brains.jpg","height":1080,"width":1920},"url":"https:\/\/iaomt.org\/the-impact-of-fluoride-on-childrens-developing-brains-a-review-of-nih-studies-and-public-health-policy\/","video":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"VideoObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=scazEGy3Feg#VideoObject","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=scazEGy3Feg","name":"Medicine\u2019s Response to the Changing Science on Fluoride Safety","description":"Ironically, the anti-fluoridationists had historically been accused of their \"anti-scientific attitudes,\" but now it\u2019s many of the pro-fluoridationists. How did the medical and dental community react to U.S. regulators\u2019 total 180 over water fluoridation, going from presumptively safe to presumptively dangerous?\n\nWe can get the best of both worlds with topical application of fluoride, so I continue to advocate for the use of fluoride toothpaste, but pregnant and breastfeeding women may want to consider non-fluoridated water sources to reduce the apparent risk to the developing brain.\n\nThis is the final video in my series on water fluoridation. If you missed any of the others, see: \n\u2022 Why Is There Fluoride in Water? Is It Effective? (https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/video\/why-is-there-fluoride-in-water-is-it-effective)\n\u2022 Side Effects of Water Fluoridation: Dental Fluorosis (https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/video\/side-effects-of-water-fluoridation-dental-fluorosis)\n\u2022 Is Water Fluoridation Safe? (https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/video\/is-water-fluoridation-safe)\n\u2022 Why I Changed My Mind on Water Fluoridation (https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/video\/why-i-changed-my-mind-on-water-fluoridation)\n\nYou can also watch the recording of the webinar that I did on this topic, which includes a Q&A at the end: https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/webinar\/why-i-changed-my-mind-on-water-fluoridation\/\n\nI mentioned the example of lead exposure. If you want to know more, I have an entire series on that topic, starting with How the Lead Paint Industry Got Away with It (https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/video\/how-the-lead-paint-industry-got-away-with-it\/). \n\nI have a lot more videos on dental health (https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/topics\/dental-health\/), including a series on oil pulling (https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/video\/does-oil-pulling-help-with-cancer\/) and tongue scraping (https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/video\/effects-of-tongue-scraping-on-plaque-gingivitis-and-cavities\/).\n\nNew subscribers to our e-newsletter always receive a free gift. Get yours here: https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/subscribe\/.\n\nHave a question about this video? Leave it in the comment section at http:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/video\/medicines-response-to-the-changing-science-on-fluoride-safety and someone on the NutritionFacts.org team will try to answer it.\nUPDATE: We are currently testing the removal of the comment section across all video pages until October, and it will either be reinstated thereafter or removed permanently based on the results. Please feel free to continue your discussions by commenting on our YouTube channel and social media accounts, where we will have Health Support volunteers available to address questions.\n\nWant to get a list of links to all the scientific sources used in this video? Click on Sources Cited at https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/video\/medicines-response-to-the-changing-science-on-fluoride-safety. You\u2019ll also find a transcript and acknowledgements for the video, my blog and speaking tour schedule, and an easy way to search (by translated language even) through our videos spanning more than 2,000 health topics. \n\nThanks for watching. I hope you\u2019ll join in the evidence-based nutrition revolution!\n-Michael Greger, MD FACLM\n\nCaptions for this video are available in several languages; you can find yours in the video settings. View important information about our translated resources: https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/translations-info\/\n\nhttps:\/\/NutritionFacts.org\n\u2022 Subscribe: https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/subscribe\n\u2022 Donate: https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/donate\n\u2022 Podcast : https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/audio\n\u2022 Books: https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/books\n\u2022 Shop: https:\/\/drgreger.org\n\u2022 Facebook: https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/NutritionFacts.org\n\u2022 Twitter: https:\/\/twitter.com\/nutrition_facts\n\u2022 Instagram: https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nutrition_facts_org","thumbnailUrl":["https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/scazEGy3Feg\/default.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/scazEGy3Feg\/mqdefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/scazEGy3Feg\/hqdefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/scazEGy3Feg\/sddefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/scazEGy3Feg\/maxresdefault.jpg"],"uploadDate":"2024-05-08T11:59:52+00:00","duration":"PT4M36S","embedUrl":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/scazEGy3Feg","publisher":{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCddn8dUxYdgJz3Qr5mjADtA#Organization","url":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCddn8dUxYdgJz3Qr5mjADtA","name":"NutritionFacts.org","description":"NutritionFacts.org is a science-based nonprofit organization founded by Michael Greger, M.D. FACLM, that provides free updates on the latest in nutrition research via bite-sized videos, blogs, podcasts, and infographics. We are strictly non-commercial, without any sponsors, ads, brand partnerships, or paid subscriptions. More than 2,000 videos on virtually every aspect of healthy eating are available online, and new videos and blogs are uploaded weekly. Our reach is global, with a Spanish-language site, Chinese platforms, and video captions in many languages. \n\nNutritionFacts.org is a labor of love\u2014a tribute to Dr. Greger\u2019s grandmother whose own life was saved by improving her diet.\n\nVideos-of-the-day are released Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and podcasts are released Thursday. Our videos are always ad-free. If you would like to support our work, visit https:\/\/nutritionfacts.org\/donate\/.\n","logo":{"url":"https:\/\/yt3.ggpht.com\/ytc\/AIdro_logpMDR8jbUUo4TH3XIcaX5LXv99CuMNwBITEYCjbdyvDo=s800-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj","width":800,"height":800,"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=scazEGy3Feg#VideoObject_publisher_logo_ImageObject"}},"potentialAction":{"@type":"SeekToAction","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=scazEGy3Feg#VideoObject_potentialAction","target":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=scazEGy3Feg&t={seek_to_second_number}","startOffset-input":"required name=seek_to_second_number"},"interactionStatistic":[[{"@type":"InteractionCounter","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=scazEGy3Feg#VideoObject_interactionStatistic_WatchAction","interactionType":{"@type":"WatchAction"},"userInteractionCount":32450}],{"@type":"InteractionCounter","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=scazEGy3Feg#VideoObject_interactionStatistic_LikeAction","interactionType":{"@type":"LikeAction"},"userInteractionCount":1295}]},"about":["Articles","fluoride"],"wordCount":1266,"keywords":["Fluoride","water fluoridation"],"articleBody":"Recent years have seen an increasing number of studies highlighting the neurotoxic effects of fluoride, particularly on children’s developing brains. Funded by the US governments\u2019 National Institutes of Health (NIH), ten significant studies have explored these adverse effects, bringing attention to the precautionary principle in public health policy. This article delves into these findings, contrasts them with responses from the American Dental Association (ADA), and discusses the challenges in changing public health policies due to vested interests.Key Findings from NIH-Funded Fluoride Studies:Prenatal Fluoride Exposure and Cognitive Outcomes in Children in MexicoThis study examined the association between prenatal fluoride exposure and cognitive outcomes in children aged 4 to 12. The results indicated a significant decrease in IQ scores among children with higher prenatal fluoride exposure\u200b\u200b.Fluoride Exposure and ADHD SymptomsResearch conducted in Mexico City found a correlation between prenatal fluoride exposure and increased ADHD symptoms in children aged 6 to 12. This study underscored the behavioral impacts of fluoride exposure during critical developmental periods\u200b\u200b.Maternal Fluoride Exposure and IQ Scores in CanadaA Canadian study linked maternal fluoride exposure during pregnancy to lower IQ scores in offspring. This large-scale research provided compelling evidence of fluoride’s neurotoxicity\u200b\u200b.Fluoride from Infant Formula and Child IQAnother Canadian study found that infants fed formula mixed with fluoridated water had lower IQ scores compared to those fed formula mixed with non-fluoridated water, highlighting the risks associated with early-life fluoride exposure\u200b\u200b.Dietary Fluoride Intake and NeurodevelopmentThis prospective study investigated fluoride intake during pregnancy and its impact on toddlers’ neurodevelopment, revealing negative effects on cognitive functions and developmental milestones\u200b\u200b.Fluoride Exposure and Neurobehavioral ProblemsA study from the Keck School of Medicine of USC showed that higher fluoride levels during pregnancy were linked to increased neurobehavioral problems, such as emotional reactivity and anxiety, in children\u200b\u200b.Iodine Status and Fluoride ExposureResearch highlighted how iodine status can modify the association between fluoride exposure and intelligence, particularly in boys. Adequate iodine intake during pregnancy may mitigate some of fluoride\u2019s adverse effects\u200b\u200b.Maternal Urinary Fluoride and Child Neurobehavior at 36 MonthsThis study found that higher maternal urinary fluoride levels were associated with increased neurobehavioral issues in children at 36 months, emphasizing the critical window of prenatal exposure\u200b\u200b.Fluoride and HypothyroidismA Canadian cohort study linked higher fluoride exposure to an increased risk of hypothyroidism in pregnant women, which in turn can affect fetal brain development and lead to cognitive deficits in children\u200b\u200b.Neurodevelopmental Risks from Environmental ContaminantsThe MADRES cohort study in Los Angeles identified that maternal fluoride exposure was associated with higher rates of clinically significant neurobehavioral problems in children, underscoring the need for targeted public health interventions\u200b\u200b.By examining the motivations behind the IAOMT’s stance and contrasting it with the perspectives of those who may have different motivations to not acknowledge these harms, we gain insight into the complex landscape of oral health policies and the divergent viewpoints held within the field.The IAOMT’s Commitment to Human Health:The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) holds a distinctive position among dental organizations concerning the use of biocompatible dental materials and harmful chemicals such as the use of mercury and fluoride in dentistry. The IAOMT advocates for the protection of human health by discouraging the use of substances, products, therapies and medical devices that have associated harms as published in the scientific literature.The IAOMT takes a strong stand against the use of mercury and fluoride based on scientific evidence indicating adverse effects on human health. Our position is grounded in a belief that the precautionary principle should serve to guide us in shaping oral health practices, with a primary focus on the well-being of patients.\u00a0The precautionary principle is a concept that emphasizes taking preventive action in the face of uncertain risks, even in the absence of conclusive scientific evidence. It advocates for erring on the side of caution to protect public health and minimize potential harm.\u00a0Using the precautionary principle as a guide, the IAOMT seeks to create a framework that prompts dental professionals to critically evaluate the substances and procedures used in oral health practices. We emphasize the importance of exploring alternative materials and methods that are less likely to pose health risks, thereby ensuring the long-term safety and well-being of patients.By advocating for the elimination of water fluoridation and mercury-based dental fillings, the IAOMT aims to protect individuals from the known, well established risks associated with these substances. Our motivations are centered around the promotion of a safer and more holistic approach to oral health.Criticism of ADA\u2019s position on fluoride and their response to recent studies.The American Dental Association (ADA) recently published an article titled “ADA Says Exploratory Study Should Not Change Public Health Recommendation,” which addresses the most recent study questioning the benefits of fluoridated water. While the ADA emphasizes the exploratory nature of the study and reaffirms its stance on fluoridation, it is crucial to examine this response critically, especially given the broader context of emerging scientific evidence and public health concerns.The ADA has consistently supported the use of fluoride in public water systems, citing its benefits in preventing dental caries. However, this unwavering stance does a disservice to public health by downplaying a large body of scientific evidence indicating harm.\u00a0Despite mounting evidence, the ADA argues that recent studies are not conclusive enough to change public health recommendations. This position neglects the precautionary principle and overlooks the growing body of research suggesting that the risks of fluoride exposure outweigh its dental benefits\u200b\u200b.By dismissing these findings as merely “exploratory,” the ADA fails to acknowledge the potential neurodevelopmental risks posed to children. Their stance reflects an inherent bias towards maintaining the status quo, and side steps any scientific discourse. This approach also undermines public trust and hinders the adoption of more protective health measures based on emerging scientific evidence.Reliance on Historical ConsensusThe ADA’s argument heavily relies on historical consensus and endorsements from government entities like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While historical consensus is valuable, it should not serve as a shield against new evidence. Scientific understanding evolves, and public health recommendations must adapt accordingly. The ADA’s reliance on past endorsements without sufficiently addressing current scientific debates suggests a reluctance to engage with new data critically.Moreover, the assertion that fluoridation is a “safe, effective, and equitable” public health measure needs continuous re-evaluation in light of contemporary research. Discover if long-term use of erectile aids impacts dependency. Explore factors that enhance blood flow and support male health. Learn more about herbal supplements and their effects fndmanasota.org Understand the importance of safe practices. The historical context of fluoridation’s adoption in the mid-20th century differs significantly from today’s environment, where advanced research methodologies and a better understanding of chemical exposures necessitate re-assessment of long-standing practices.Here is a video overview from Nutrition Facts.org giving a damning critique of medicine\u2019s response to the changing science on #Fluoride safety.ConclusionThe growing body of evidence from NIH-funded studies underscores the need for a reevaluation of fluoride use in public health, particularly concerning its neurodevelopmental impacts on children. The precautionary principle supports taking preventive measures to mitigate these risks. However, significant challenges remain in translating these findings into policy changes due to entrenched interests and the slow pace of public health policy adaptation. It is imperative for policymakers, healthcare providers, and the public to consider this evidence critically and prioritize the long-term health and cognitive development of future generations.For further information please read the IAOMT 2024 Fluoride Position Paper."},{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"The Impact of Fluoride on Children\u2019s Developing Brains: A Review of NIH Studies and Public Health Policy","item":"https:\/\/iaomt.org\/the-impact-of-fluoride-on-childrens-developing-brains-a-review-of-nih-studies-and-public-health-policy\/#breadcrumbitem"}]}]