By Dr. Richard Wolfert, DMD  
The Toothboss, www.toothboss.com

Happy 2026. It may be a new year, but in dental circles and mainstream press there’s a story that continues to surface about one specific topic:
Fluoride.
Fluoride has been in the news – and in our water – for decades. Yet even today, dentists still get asked, “Is fluoride really safe?” It’s a fair question. As with any health topic, there’s a lot of information – and misinformation – floating around. So, let’s set the record straight.
Is community water fluoridation safe?
At recommended levels, the answer is yes. Fluoridated water is safe, effective, and one of the simplest ways to reduce cavities across a community. It doesn’t replace the protection you receive from good daily habits: Brushing and flossing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, eating a low-sugar diet, and seeing your dentist regularly.
Can fluoride ever be dangerous?
Fluoride used in dentistry is very safe. Dentists use fluoride on the surface of your teeth, where it rebuilds enamel and prevents decay. That’s why toothpastes, rinses, and in-office treatments work so well. Swallowing fluoride is also safe. There can be potential for a problem if too much fluoride is ingested by children, as it can cause issues like dental fluorosis. This condition makes teeth a yellow brown and/or greyish color, but the teeth are very strong and decay resistant. That’s why dentists advise children under six years of age to use only a pea-sized smear of toothpaste and always spit, never swallow.
What about claims that fluoride is a neurotoxin?
Those concerns stem from studies involving extremely high levels of fluoride ingestion. You will not find that level of fluoride in dental products or municipal water. The small, topical amounts we use when brushing our teeth, in mouth rinses, and professional treatments are safe and highly effective at preventing cavities.
Why do some countries ban fluoride?
No countries ban it outright. Some choose not to add it to their water supply, that’s all. Citizens of those countries simply get their fluoride from toothpaste, rinses, or fluoride varnishes. Even if it’s not in the municipal water supply, fluoride remains widely used worldwide as a proven cavity-fighting tool.
Tap water vs. bottled water
Many bottled waters do not contain added fluoride. That doesn’t make them harmful. It means they don’t have the same cavity-fighting benefit as fluoridated tap water. If you drink mostly bottled water, your dentist might recommend additional topical fluoride to make up the difference.
Why not avoid fluoride altogether?
You could. Yet without fluoride, your teeth are more vulnerable to decay. Used topically and correctly, fluoride remains one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities in both children and adults. For seniors, it’s especially helpful since root exposure and dry mouth can increase your risk of cavities.
The bottom line
Dentists are medical doctors and take an oath and everything. Part of fulfilling that oath is only using technology and treatments that are helpful, not hurtful. Community water fluoridation and topical fluoride use fit that description perfectly. These are very safe, affordable, and effective ways to protect your smile and work particularly well when paired with regular cleanings and good home care.
So, drink up, brush up, and keep smiling. Fluoride is your friend.

About the Author: Dr. Richard Wolfert, DMD is the owner of The Toothboss, 1121 Main St., South Weymouth. For more information, call 781-335-0604 or visit www.toothboss.com.