American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
EPANonrulemakingEPA-HQ-OW-2025-3823

Review of Science on Fluoride in Drinking Water

RIN
Last modified
Feb 10, 2026
Comment window
closed 151d ago
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) filings
3

Activity

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) filed 3 comments on this docket between Feb 20, 2026 and Mar 2, 2026. 53 other organizations filed here. The comment window closed 151d ago.

What American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) filed (3)

Mar 2, 2026· Comment submitted by Wisconsin Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (WIAAP)· EPA-HQ-OW-2025-3823-0127

Filed on regulations.gov — full text not in the inline record.

Feb 27, 2026· Comment submitted by American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)· EPA-HQ-OW-2025-3823-0116

Filed on regulations.gov — full text not in the inline record.

Feb 20, 2026· Comment submitted by Mississippi Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics· EPA-HQ-OW-2025-3823-0029

The Mississippi Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (MSAAP) appreciates the opportunity to provide comment on the Environmental Protection Agency's Assessment Plan for the Fluoride Human Health Toxicity Assessment. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has long supported community water fluoridation as a safe, effective, and equitable public health measure that prevents dental cavities in children. Dental cavities remain the most common chronic disease of childhood, disproportionately affecting children living in poverty, rural communities, and areas with limited access to dental care—realities that are deeply familiar to us in Mississippi. A robust body of scientific evidence spanning more than 75 years demonstrates that optimally fluoridated water reduces tooth decay by strengthening enamel and decreasing the risk of cavities across the lifespan. Community water fluoridation has been recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as one of the ten greatest public health achievements of the 20th century because of its demonstrated safety, effectiveness, and cost-efficiency. As pediatricians, we see firsthand the consequences of untreated dental disease—pain, infection, missed school days, difficulty eating and speaking, and in severe cases, hospitalization. We also see the protective benefit that fluoridated water provides, particularly for children who may not have consistent access to dental services, fluoride varnish applications, or dental insurance coverage. We support the EPA's commitment to a transparent, systematic, and science-based review process. We strongly encourage that the forthcoming Systematic Review Protocol and subsequent toxicity assessment rely on high-quality, peer-reviewed evidence; clearly distinguish between exposure levels; and consider decades of data demonstrating safety at recommended community water fluoridation levels (0.7 mg/L in the United States). It is essential that any assessment carefully differentiate between excessive fluoride exposure and optimally fluoridated community water, which has consistently been shown to be safe and beneficial. Public health decisions must be grounded in the totality of evidence and communicated clearly to avoid unintended erosion of trust in proven preventive measures. The Mississippi Chapter of the AAP remains committed to doing what is best for children. We urge the EPA to ensure that its review process is rigorous, transparent, and anchored in sound science so that children—especially those most vulnerable—continue to benefit from safe and effective preventive strategies that protect their oral health and overall well-being. Respectfully submitted, Mississippi Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics

Abstract

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is reviewing new scientific information on potential health risks of fluoride in drinking water. This renewed scientific evaluation is an essential step that will inform agency decisions on the standard for fluoride under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

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