In a contentious 4-3 decision, the Naples City Council has voted to discontinue fluoridating the city’s water supply, a move that has sparked intense debate among residents and medical professionals. The decision, set to take effect on January 1, 2025, comes after months of public discussion and conflicting testimony from various experts.

The controversy intensified following Florida Surgeon General Joseph Lapado’s November recommendation against water fluoridation, a stance that diverges from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines. The American Dental Association (ADA) quickly responded, reaffirming its support for community water fluoridation.

RELATED: Florida Surgeon General Opposes Water Fluoridation, Calls It ‘Public Health Malpractice’

Proponents of fluoride removal argued that it infringes on individual rights and potentially poses health risks. Keith Law, a local resident, characterized fluoride as a “neurotoxin” and emphasized the importance of informed consent. Some medical professionals, like Dr. Tim Driscoll, supported this view, suggesting that alternative fluoride products make water fluoridation unnecessary.

Conversely, supporters of fluoridation emphasized its public health benefits. Dr. Johnny Johnson from the American Fluoridation Society highlighted fluoride’s role in preventing cavities, particularly for low-income communities with limited access to dental care. Dr. Marilyn Sandor, a pediatric dentist, warned that removing fluoride could lead to increased oral health issues among children.

RELATED: Florida’s Push to Remove Fluoride Sparks Warnings from Communities with Experience

Council member Raymond Christman defended fluoridation as a cost-effective public health measure, while Mayor Teresa Heitmann ultimately supported its removal. The vote reflected the complex and polarizing nature of the issue, with council members deeply divided.

The decision means Naples residents will soon be responsible for obtaining fluoride through alternative means, marking a significant shift in the city’s approach to dental public health.

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