SALT LAKE CITY — A new Utah law banning community water fluoridation is set to take effect May 7, impacting more than 1.6 million residents across Salt Lake and Davis counties and Brigham City.
House Bill 81, passed during the 2024 legislative session, prohibits public water systems from adding fluoride. In response, the Utah Department of Health and Human Services is urging residents to explore alternative sources of dental protection, such as fluoride supplements, which pharmacists can now prescribe without a prior visit to a doctor or dentist.
“Access to accurate, evidence-based information remains essential for protecting the health of all Utahns,” said Dr. Stacey Bank, executive medical director at DHHS. “Oral health is a critical component of overall well-being.”
Fluoride, a natural mineral, is commonly used to help prevent tooth decay. However, naturally occurring levels in Utah’s water are typically too low to be effective without supplementation. That’s led to widespread community fluoridation until the new ban.
Dr. Stacey Swilling, the state’s dental director, said the agency supports efforts to maintain oral health through other means.
“We recognize the benefits of fluoride to overall health,” she said. “While community water fluoridation will no longer be available, there are measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing cavities.”
Fluoride supplements are now available for children ages 6 months to 16 years in areas with low natural fluoride, and adults at high risk of tooth decay may also be eligible. Other options include fluoride varnish treatments and over-the-counter products such as toothpaste and mouth rinses.
DHHS encourages Utahns to contact their local water providers to find out the natural fluoride levels in their drinking water. Those on private wells will need to get their water tested at a certified laboratory.
The department is also promoting dental checkups every six months and other preventative measures such as limiting sugar intake, quitting tobacco, and brushing with fluoride toothpaste.
For low-cost dental care or Medicaid coverage, residents can find more information at https://ruralhealth.utah.gov/oral-health-program.