Community fluoridation – considered one of the top public health success stories of the last century – has been banned in Utah, with a new law taking effect Wednesday.

As a Florida bill banning fluoride awaits Gov. Ron DeSantis’ approval, oral health advocates warn the move signifies a major public health setback.

With Utah’s first-in-the-nation ban on fluoride in public drinking water set to take effect Wednesday, dentists who treat children and low-income patients say they’re bracing for an influx in tooth decay among the state’s most vulnerable.