One of the most common questions I have heard this year is some version of: "Florida took fluoride out of the water. Should I be worried about my teeth?"
Here is what changed, and what you can do about it.
What Changed?
A state law that took effect on July 1, 2025, stopped Florida water providers from adding fluoride to public drinking water. Florida became the second state to end community water fluoridation, after Utah. ([WUSF](https://www.wusf.org/health-news-florida/2025-07-01/florida-stops-fluoridating-its-water-heres-what-you-should-know))
Tap water can still contain some fluoride that occurs naturally, but in most places it is now lower than before. If you want to know the level where you live, your water utility's annual water quality report will list it.
Why fluoride matters for teeth
Fluoride strengthens enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth, and helps repair the earliest stages of tooth decay before they become cavities. Less fluoride from water means the other sources of fluoride matter more than they used to.
What I recommend now
For everyone:
Use a fluoride toothpaste twice a day. Check the label. Many "natural" toothpastes do not contain fluoride.
Spit, do not rinse, after brushing. Leaving a thin layer of toothpaste on your teeth lets the fluoride keep working.
Keep up with regular checkups, so small problems are caught early.
Cut back on sipping sugary drinks and snacking throughout the day. Every sip or snack starts a new acid attack on your teeth.
For children:
Use a smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice for children under 3, and a pea-sized amount for ages 3 to 6. Supervise brushing so they do not swallow it.
Ask about fluoride treatment at checkups. Our children's visits include fluoride.
Talk with your child's dentist or pediatrician about whether fluoride supplements make sense for your family, especially if your child drinks mostly tap or bottled water.
For adults at higher risk of cavities, such as people with dry mouth, many fillings or crowns, or gum recession, ask us whether a professional fluoride treatment or a higher-strength prescription toothpaste is a good idea.
A note on bottled water
Most bottled water contains little or no fluoride. If your family drinks mostly bottled water, the steps above are even more important.
Questions?
Whatever your view of the change, the goal is the same: keeping your family's teeth healthy. If you are not sure what your family needs, call us at [(407) 767-0633] (tel:+14077670633) and we will help you make a plan.
Magnolia Springs Dentistry
703 Magnolia Drive, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
[(407) 767-0633] (tel:+14077670633)
This article is general information, not a diagnosis. Please call us to schedule an exam.