Heated Debate Erupts in Miami-Dade Over Removing Fluoride from Drinking Water

A fiery debate has broken out in Miami-Dade County over a proposal that could change the way more than 2 million residents get their water. At the center of the controversy? Fluoride — a mineral that’s been added to the county’s drinking water for more than six decades to help fight tooth decay.

But now, that long-standing practice is under the microscope after Florida’s top health official called for it to be stopped.

What Sparked the Controversy?

The debate took a sharp turn in late 2024 when Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo publicly recommended that local governments stop adding fluoride to their water supplies. Citing research linking high fluoride exposure to possible developmental issues in children, Ladapo argued that the risk isn’t worth it.

“The question is not whether fluoride is harmful in massive doses. The question is whether we should be putting it in everyone’s drinking water,” Ladapo said during a recent roundtable discussion hosted by the Miami-Dade County Commission.

His comments set off alarm bells — and not just among public health advocates.

A Deep Divide Among County Leaders

Commissioners invited Ladapo to share his reasoning, but it didn’t take long for tensions to flare.

“This just doesn’t make sense,” Commissioner Marleine Bastien said during the roundtable. “The overwhelming body of research says fluoride in low amounts is safe and helps prevent cavities — especially for kids and underserved communities.”

Other commissioners shared her concern, pointing out that Ladapo’s claims seem to rely heavily on studies involving much higher levels of fluoride than what’s used in Miami-Dade’s water, which is about 0.7 milligrams per liter — right in line with federal guidelines.

Still, not everyone was convinced.

Commissioner Roberto Gonzalez, for example, has voiced support for removing fluoride altogether. “Why are we putting a chemical in people’s water without their consent?” he asked. “This is about choice.”

A Long History of Fluoride in Water

Miami-Dade began adding fluoride to its drinking water in 1958, following federal and state recommendations. The practice is backed by nearly every major public health agency, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

According to the CDC, water fluoridation reduces tooth decay by roughly 25%, and it’s considered especially important for children, seniors, and low-income populations who may not have easy access to regular dental care.

“This is one of the most effective, inexpensive public health tools we have,” said Dr. Angela Ramos, a Miami-based pediatric dentist. “It’s disappointing to see politics getting in the way of science.”

What Happens If Fluoride Is Removed?

If Miami-Dade moves forward with removing fluoride from its water, it won’t be the first in Florida to do so. Winter Haven made a similar decision in late 2024, and other communities are reportedly considering the same.

Public health experts worry that a domino effect could follow — with serious consequences.

“The risk isn’t just cavities,” Dr. Ramos explained. “It’s about the cost of care, missed school days, and long-term dental health. Once tooth decay starts, it doesn’t stop on its own.”

On the other hand, fluoride skeptics believe families should have the freedom to choose whether they consume it. Some argue that fluoride is readily available in toothpaste and other products, and that mass-medication through drinking water crosses a line.

Residents Caught in the Middle

The controversy has left many Miami-Dade residents feeling confused — and conflicted.

“I’ve been brushing with fluoride my whole life and never thought twice about it,” said Coral Gables resident Elena Morales. “But now I’m wondering if I should be worried, or if this is just another political fight.”

Others are worried about the potential fallout if fluoride is removed.

“My son’s school gives kids free dental checkups and talks about the importance of drinking tap water,” said Alicia Torres, a mother of three from Little Haiti. “What happens to those families if fluoride goes away? They can’t all afford dental visits every few months.”

No Final Decision Yet

For now, the county has hit pause on any final vote. The commission has agreed to further study the issue and bring in more voices — from dentists and toxicologists to community members and environmental experts.

In the meantime, the debate continues to boil, with public health and personal freedom clashing in one of the most talked-about local issues this year.

Whether Miami-Dade keeps fluoride in its water or not, one thing’s clear: this conversation is far from over.