NORTH DAKOTA (KXNET) — Once again, there's a report that questions if there is a link between fluoride in drinking water and cognitive development in kids. The research is a review of 74 other studies that explore how the mineral can have effects on the IQ levels in children. It found that there's a significant association between high fluoride exposure and lower IQ scores, with author Kyla Taylor stating, "The more fluoride a child is exposed to, the more likely that child's IQ will be lower than if they were not exposed." She added, "There is a decrease of 1.63 IQ points in children" who have a small increase of fluoride found in their urine. However, it was not suggested that fluoride be removed — in fact, it's been part of the public water supplies in the U.S. for decades. No U.S. studies have been flagged for measurable decreases in cognitive development since it was introduced to water. But, there has been pushback that's growing against fluoridated water in communities, with some already voting to remove it entirely from public water supplies. With this, dentists are beginning to worry that these findings could be damaging to public health. "What we have seen in areas where fluoride has been removed, is that dental decay rates have increased dramatically," explained Dr. Erica Caffrey, a pediatric dentist. The CDC, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Dental Association (ADA) are all in support of using fluoridated water. While the proof doesn't exist yet, Dr. Scott Tomar, an ADA spokesperson, said that if more studies prove the link between fluoride and brain development, then public health leaders should look closer at the effects of the mineral. Bobbleheads to celebrate NDSU’s National Championship win "With the evidence that we have so far, that is not at all a clear case at this point, certainly not at the levels of fluoride that we use in community water fluoridation," continued Tomar. Rather, an Australian study found there was no link between early childhood exposure and negative cognitive neurodevelopment. Instead, the study found a slightly higher IQ in kids who drank fluoridated water consistently — the levels in Australia are consistent with the levels in the U.S. Despite the beneficial evidence of preventing tooth decay, experts assert that any possible link should be studied even further. "At a minimum, we need urgently to have an independent scientific panel come together to review the evidence," added Professor of Health Sciences, Dr. Bruce Lanphear. The U.S. Public Health Service suggests that a concentration of 0.7 mg/L should be in drinking water to prevent tooth decay, but Taylor said there isn't enough data to prove that the level has any impact. "The evidence base is very weak for there being any concerns at these low levels," said Professor of Preventive and Community Dentistry, Steven Levy. "The ongoing benefits of community water fluoridation at this time strongly outweigh the flawed analyses that are presented in the paper." A California federal judge ruled that even though he can't conclude with certainty that fluoridated water is a danger, the EPA should still strengthen regulations. Pediatric dentist Courtney Peterson, is worried about the movement against fluoride in water, saying "I think people are going to freak. People are going to look at the headline and say high levels of fluoride will lead to a whole bunch (of problems) without actually looking into it." While North Dakota does participate in adding fluoride to its drinking water, out of 332 communities, there are 55 that do not. Cass, McKenzie, and Bottineau counties are the ones with the most non-participating communities. You can find out if your community participates by visiting this website. You can learn more about fluoridation in public water here. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW