120 - Water Fluoridation: Investigating Political Oversight & Personal Autonomy

Abstract: Water Fluoridation: Investigating Political Oversight & Personal Autonomy
Ginsberg, T. Primary Children’s Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT



Purpose: Community water fluoridation is recognized by healthcare organizations as a cost-effective public measure for preventing dental caries. However, this implementation creates ethical and political debate, regarding the balance between public health mandates and individual liberty. Utah was the first state to prohibit addition of fluoride to public water systems following the passing of House Bill 8. This new legislation warrants an understanding of how the public perceives government involvement in preventative healthcare. This study assessed public opinion in Utah regarding community water fluoridation. Specifically, the relationship between political ideology, trust in information sources, and attitudes toward government oversight of personal health choices.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was administered to parents or guardians of patients living in Utah who receive care at Primary Children's Hospital Dental Clinic and two additional suburban private pediatric dental practices. The survey assessed participants’ demographic information, including age, education level, and political party alignment. Key aspects of the survey investigated awareness of this recent legislative shift, their child’s personal use of fluoride products, and trust in various sources such as the AAPD, social media and other healthcare providers. The questionnaire also inquired about participants’ stance regarding the ethical implications of government-mandated water fluoridation versus the right to personal autonomy.

Results: Of 298 respondents, approximately half were fully aware of Utah's legislative ban on CWF, opinions on government control were nearly evenly divided (36% opposed, 30% in favor, 33% unsure), and political affiliation and education level were significantly associated with views on CWF (p < 0.05).



Conclusion: Opposition to government-controlled water fluoridation appears to reflect concerns about personal autonomy over public health decisions rather than a fundamental rejection of fluoride, highlighting an opportunity for pediatric dentists to reframe conversations by separating the science of fluoride from the politics of its delivery.