Fluoride in Florida: A Closer Look at New Smyrna Beach & Ormond Beach 🚰

Hey neighbors! There’s been quite a buzz around town lately. Both New Smyrna Beach and Ormond Beach have decided to stop adding fluoride to our water. As a local realtor who cares about our community, I wanted to break it down in a fun and easy-to-read way.

So, What’s the Scoop?

On February 24, the New Smyrna Beach Utilities Commission voted to end water fluoridation. The main reasons? Outdated equipment—replacement costs are nearly $500,000—and ongoing labor and testing fees of about $5,000 per year. Not too long ago, in January, the Ormond Beach City Commission also voted unanimously to stop the process, following concerns raised by local residents and fresh public health perspectives.

Why the Change? 💡

This move lines up with advice from Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, who, in November 2024, called the continued use of fluoride “public health malpractice.” A report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Toxicity Program hinted at a link between higher fluoride levels and lower IQ in children. Even though top organizations like the American Dental Association and the CDC still support fluoridation for its dental benefits, many are now rethinking the balance between cost, safety, and personal choice.

A Trend Across Florida 🌴

New Smyrna Beach and Ormond Beach aren’t the only ones making waves. Cities like Melbourne, Naples, Tavares, Stuart and Port St. Lucie have also joined the movement. More municipalities are weighing the pros and cons and deciding to let residents choose for themselves.

What’s Your Take?

I’d love to hear from you! Do you see this as a win for personal choice and cost-saving, or are you concerned about missing out on the dental benefits of fluoride? As we see these changes across Florida, it’s a great time for us to chat about what’s best for our community.

Feel free to drop a comment below or send me a topic you’d like to hear about next. I’m here to keep you informed and make sure our community stays ahead of the curve—because, after all, this is our neighborhood!

Ryan Tesnow, MPA
Realtor, Coldwell Banker

📞 Office: (386) 427-3602 | 📱 Cell: (254) 206-5020

📍 394-B N. Causeway, New Smyrna Beach, FL, 32169