Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s vocal opposition to fluoridation in public drinking water has sparked a heated debate among dentists and health experts, who argue that his stance could lead to increased cavities and other dental problems in low-income communities.
Kennedy’s claim that fluoride can cause more cavities is not supported by scientific evidence, but his anti-fluoride crusade has already led to the ban of fluoridated water in two states this year. Other states are considering doing the same, despite warnings from the American Dental Association and other health organizations about the potential risks.
Kennedy’s own dental health has also raised eyebrows among some dentists. A recent photo showed Kennedy with what appeared to be a piece of food stuck between his teeth, which led some to speculate that he may not floss regularly. However, many experts agree that Kennedy appears to have good dental hygiene overall, with healthy gums and no signs of gum disease.
The issue is more complex than Kennedy’s personal oral health, however. Fluoridation has been shown to be particularly beneficial for low-income communities, which often lack access to resources and education on maintaining good oral health. Without fluoridated water, these communities may be left vulnerable to tooth decay and other dental problems.
“This is not just about Kennedy’s teeth,” said Arosha Weerakoon, a professor in dentistry at the University of Queensland. “This is about protecting those who are most vulnerable – children who can’t buy fluoride toothpaste for themselves.”
Source: https://slate.com/technology/2025/07/rfk-jr-teeth-fluoride-dental-hygiene-children.html