Landmark Ruling Declares Fluoridated Water a Threat to Children’s IQ
The International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine (IABDM) is hailing a recent U.S. District Court ruling, which found that water fluoridation at levels deemed “optimal” in the United States poses an unreasonable risk of injury to Children’s IQ. The ruling, issued in the case of Food & Water Watch, Inc. v. EPA, marks a significant step forward in the ongoing battle against the dangers of fluoride exposure, particularly its harmful effects on children’s cognitive development.
Judge Edward Chen’s decision to recognize the strong scientific evidence linking fluoride exposure to reduced IQ in children is a long-awaited victory for health advocates and a wake-up call for federal regulators. The ruling underscores that fluoride in drinking water, particularly at the 0.7 mg/L concentration used in many U.S. municipalities, constitutes an unreasonable risk, warranting further regulatory action from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Dr. Ted Herrmann, President of the IABDM, commended the decision, stating, “This ruling is a major milestone for those of us who have been fighting for decades to end the reckless and unnecessary practice of water fluoridation. For too long, government agencies have ignored the mounting evidence of harm. This decision confirms what we’ve been saying all along: fluoride exposure, especially in vulnerable populations like pregnant women and young children, carries serious health risks.”
Judge Chen’s decision was based on a comprehensive review of scientific studies, including evidence presented by plaintiffs demonstrating that children in fluoridated communities have significantly higher levels of fluoride in their urine, which correlates with IQ reductions. “The fact that we now have a legal decision acknowledging fluoride’s dangers is monumental,” said Dr. Herrmann. “This is about protecting future generations from unnecessary harm.”
The IABDM, which has been at the forefront of promoting safe, non-toxic alternatives to conventional dental practices, sees this ruling as an opportunity for meaningful reform. “The time has come for the EPA to stop dragging its feet and take decisive action,” Dr. Herrmann added. “Mothers and children deserve better, and this ruling paves the way for a more responsible and health-conscious approach to public water safety.”
This ruling builds on findings from multiple studies, including the National Toxicology Program’s 2024 monograph, which identified consistent evidence linking higher fluoride exposure to decreased IQ scores in children. The size of the affected population is vast—approximately 200 million Americans are exposed to fluoridated water, with an estimated two million pregnant women and over 300,000 formula-fed infants among those at the greatest risk.
About IABDM
The International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine is a network of dentists, physicians, and other health practitioners committed to the art and science of biological dentistry. The IABDM advocates for the use of biocompatible dental materials and practices that promote optimal health, free from toxins like mercury and fluoride.