Multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses indicate that high levels of fluoride exposure can negatively impact neurodevelopment and lower intelligence quotients in children, while noting that effects at very low or standard controlled concentrations remain a subject of ongoing regulatory discussion.
Evidence for · 6
Environmental pollutant exposure and adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes: An umbrella review and evidence grading of meta-analyses.
2025 · cited by 9
Childhood fluoride exposure is identified as highly suggestive evidence for cognitive deficit in an umbrella review.
Evidence against · 1
Water fluoridation today: - benefits and challenges.
2026 · cited by 0
Review asserts that below the usual permitted concentration of 1.5 mgF/L, there is no risk to health.
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More for · 5
Updated consumer risk assessment of fluoride in food and drinking water including the contribution from other sources of oral exposure.
2025 · cited by 3
Evidence from human studies indicates that total fluoride intake is associated with adverse effects on the developing brain at higher drinking water concentrations.
How the public's knowledge, attitudes, and practice intersect with scientific evidence about fluoride.
2025 · cited by 1
Concerns are discussed regarding the possible links between fluoride intake and lowered intelligence in children.
Community Water Fluoridation a Cost-Benefit-Risk Consideration.
2024 · cited by 1
Economic evaluations factor in potential lost wages from lower IQ attributed to developmental neurotoxicity.
Artificial water fluoridation for dental health improvement: a review and meta-analysis of the evidence and implications of a possible association between water fluoride and IQ
2024 · cited by 1
Meta-analysis shows that higher water fluoride groups had lower mean IQ compared with low water fluoride groups, particularly at high concentrations.
Fluoride and the brain: A systematic review of neurotoxicity and developmental risks.
2026 · cited by 0
Review indicates that excessive fluoride exposure, particularly during critical neurodevelopmental periods, may exert neurotoxic effects leading to cognitive impairments.