#preventing dental issues

[luminarai]

Attempting to get the beast used to a dental hygiene routine is… well, it’s going.

(She stayed that way for a solid 8 seconds despite hating being held belly up so I think it’s safe to say that Mim is not beating the ‘tiny speaker playing elevator music instead of a brain’ allegations any time soon.)

[practically-an-x-man]

Loki's home and has had his first doses of the medications. Got a chart made to keep track of future doses, should be able to do most of those myself but I've had to enlist my parents for the two times I'll be at work when he needs his meds. Should be able to manage this okay and hopefully he will start improving with these meds

All the vets were in agreement that Loki was the best-behaved hedgehog they've ever seen, they said that normally they have to put hedgehogs in water to convince them to uncurl enough to do an exam but Loki allowed them to examine him without too much protest, and that he cooperated really well with being syringe-fed when they gave him some of that nutrition supplement. He's a very popular boy!

One of the nurses also made the comment of "not everyone can handle exotics, but you can handle exotics. He's clearly really well-socialized and you've obviously done your research" which was really nice to hear especially with all the stress and anxiety about his health lately. Even when I do the best I can and even when it's something outside my control, I still worry that I'm making the wrong choices or am an unfit pet owner when things like this happen, so it was good to have that reassurance

[blackmoldmp3]

w multiple health professionals telling me dental issues can cause long term damage to your heart etc it seems so fucked up that in a country with 'universal' healthcare im still stuck paying thousands of dollars getting this shit taken care of. even w some amount of private dental insurance

[tricountyanimal]

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Brushing Your Dog's Teeth

Keeping your dog's teeth clean is crucial for their overall health. While brushing your dog's teeth might seem straightforward, there are some common mistakes that many pet owners make. These mistakes can lead to ineffective cleaning or even harm your dog's oral health. In this article, we'll explore these common mistakes and how to avoid them to ensure your dog's teeth stay healthy and strong. For more personalized advice, consider visiting Tri-County Animal Hospital.

Mistakes to Avoid When Brushing Your Dog's Teeth

1. Using Human Toothpaste

One of the most common mistakes is using human toothpaste to brush your dog's teeth. Human toothpaste contains ingredients that can be harmful to dogs if ingested. Always use toothpaste specifically designed for dogs, which is safe and often flavored to appeal to your pet.

2. Not Starting Early

Many pet owners wait until their dog is older to start brushing their teeth. It's best to start when your dog is a puppy, as this helps them get used to the process early on. If you have an older dog, it's never too late to start, but it may take more patience and training.

3. Inconsistent Brushing Routine

Consistency is key when it comes to brushing your dog's teeth. Infrequent brushing won't effectively remove plaque and tartar buildup. Aim to brush your dog's teeth at least two to three times a week, if not daily.

4. Brushing Too Hard

Brushing too hard can damage your dog's gums and teeth. Use gentle, circular motions and be mindful of your pressure. Your goal is to clean the teeth without causing any discomfort or harm.

5. Ignoring Dental Checkups

While brushing your dog's teeth at home is essential, it doesn't replace professional dental checkups. Regular visits to the vet, such as those offered by Tri-County Animal Hospital, are crucial for maintaining your dog's oral health. Professional cleanings can address issues that at-home brushing cannot.

6. Using the Wrong Brush

Using a toothbrush designed for humans or a brush that's too large can be uncomfortable for your dog. Use a toothbrush specifically made for dogs, which typically has softer bristles and is designed to fit comfortably in your dog's mouth.

7. Skipping Areas

It's easy to miss certain areas when brushing your dog's teeth, especially the back teeth. Make sure to brush all surfaces of your dog's teeth, including the front, back, and sides, to ensure a thorough cleaning.

8. Not Being Patient

Brushing your dog's teeth can be a challenging task, especially if your dog is not used to it. Patience is essential. Take your time, and if your dog is resistant, try to make the experience as positive as possible by using treats and praise.

9. Using the Same Brush for Too Long

Just like with human toothbrushes, dog toothbrushes need to be replaced regularly. Over time, the bristles can wear out and become less effective. Replace your dog's toothbrush every three months or sooner if it shows signs of wear.

10. Neglecting Other Dental Care Methods

While brushing is important, it's not the only way to care for your dog's teeth. Dental chews, toys, and a diet designed to promote dental health can also help keep your dog's teeth clean. Consult with your vet, like those at Tri-County Animal Hospital, for recommendations on the best products for your dog.

11. Not Using Treats or Rewards

Many dogs are not immediately fond of having their teeth brushed. Using treats or rewards can help make the experience more enjoyable for your dog. Positive reinforcement can go a long way in creating a positive association with tooth brushing.

12. Not Monitoring for Signs of Dental Issues

Even with regular brushing, it's important to monitor your dog's mouth for signs of dental issues, such as bad breath, red or swollen gums, and loose or broken teeth. If you notice any of these signs, schedule a visit with your vet right away.

13. Overlooking Professional Help

If you're struggling with brushing your dog's teeth, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Many vets, including those at Tri-County Animal Hospital, offer dog teeth cleaning services that can ensure your dog's teeth are thoroughly cleaned and healthy.

14. Assuming Dry Food is Enough

While dry food can help reduce tartar buildup, it's not a substitute for brushing. Some pet owners assume that feeding their dog dry food is enough to keep their teeth clean, but brushing is still necessary for optimal dental health.

15. Forgetting to Clean the Tongue

Just like with humans, a dog's tongue can harbor bacteria. While brushing your dog's teeth, take a moment to gently brush their tongue as well. This can help reduce bad breath and improve overall oral hygiene.

Conclusion

Brushing your dog's teeth is an essential part of their overall health care routine. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your dog's teeth remain healthy and clean. Remember to use the right tools, be consistent, and seek professional help when needed. With patience and care, you can make tooth brushing a positive experience for both you and your dog. For additional support and services, visit Tri-County Animal Hospital.

[eva-care-dental-clinic]

Importance of Dental X-Rays: Key Benefits, Common Concerns, and Safety Tips

Discover the essential role of dental X-rays in maintaining oral health. Learn how they detect hidden issues, monitor tooth development, evaluate bone health, and plan effective treatments. Address common concerns about radiation exposure and safety, especially for children and pregnant women, and understand the numerous advantages of early detection and accurate diagnosis.

[shinestardentalcare]

If you are looking to fix your crooked teeth, you may be considering traditional braces or Invisalign. Invisalign is a form of orthodontics and is a newer way to straighten teeth. Utilizing new scanning technology, dentists non-invasively scan your teeth to create a set of aligners to slowly adjust your teeth to the optimal position.

[dissociacrip]

i saw that one disability-related post a while ago about dental care but i can't find it again so i'm gonna mention a few things as a (mild to moderately) mentally & physically disabled person, whose teeth hurt when i eat sweet stuff now + i've had a root canal due to a fall + i'm learning to take care of myself, that may or may not help other folks with their dental routine

note: i am not a dentist & this info is mostly what i've gleaned secondhand from dentists, so yeah, i am not an expert in any capacity

water flossers aren't as effective as regular flossing (doing both is actually what's most effective) but they're better than nothing & helpful in cases where coordination problems or other issues might prevent regular flossing technique (i imagine this also depends on the quality of the water flosser)

if you use one of the plastic pre-made floss picks things, rinse the string off in-between each time you use it to floss one side of a tooth, it's tedious but it mimics moving to a new (clean) part of the thread like you do with regular floss

if you get an automatic toothbrush, get one that does circular rotation rather than just vibrating or whatever, as this mimics the tools they use in a dentist's office + imitates the circular motion you're expected to make with a standard toothbrush (which is also hard with coordination issues), i got one that does this pretty cheap from walmart (it's an oral-b but i forgot the specific type) + it automatically times it for you

if you have white spots on your teeth that are uneven with the shade of the rest of the tooth those are potentially white spot lesions due to demineralization; whitening products can make this worse rather than help it, but some products can help with remineralization such as mi paste topical tooth creme, which contains calcium and phosphate (i have yet to try this myself but it seems to get suggested by a lot of dentists, orthodontists, etc. for white spots on teeth & it's also supposed to help with sensitivity and tooth health in general because the white spots are lesions so it's not purely cosmetic!)

it's advised to not rinse your mouth immediately after brushing as this potentially dilutes & reduces the effects of the flouride (if you use fluoride toothpaste), stuff says to wait at least 15 minutes or so

just giving your teeth a quick scrub (even if it's without toothpaste and just water) is better than not brushing your teeth at all

if you have trouble seeing a dentist for financial reasons, try to see if there are income-based or charity dental services in your area, sometimes dental schools also provide low-cost/free dental care

that's all i can think of for now, i wish i had more advice for people who struggle to be able to brush their teeth at all in general but this is all i got unfortunately :(

additionally - you're not bad, useless, gross, or a failure if you struggle to (or can't) maintain oral hygiene; this stuff is much easier for some people than it is to others & those who take it for granted like to forget that, no one deserves to be mocked or looked down on for being disabled & struggling to/not being able to do """basic""" stuff like this!

[intheholler]

what joke are you really tryin to tell when you make fun of appalachia and the greater south?

even when you "just" mock our accents (you and i both know what you're really implying when you take on the drawl), the punchline of your joke there is poverty.

those who prefer a more overt route over backhanded implication: when you laugh at our education, or lack thereof, the punchline of your joke is still poverty. systemically underfunded schools packed with underprivileged children who aren't getting the same standards of education as the rest of the country is a real knee slapper boy i tell you what

when you mock our dental health and start quipping about toothless hillbillies, you're still laughin at poverty. appalachia is disproportionately uninsured compared to the rest of the nation. fellas most of us can't afford the privilege of regular, preventative dental visits and checkups, let alone the cost of huge procedures when things finally get dire. beyond that, our poverty is generational. from the get go we inherit bad teeth from family who couldn't afford that shit neither.

in the same vein, when you make fatphobic comments about said disproportionately-uninsured region--one with few jobs available to begin with, let alone work that pays enough to afford wholesome, unprocessed foods that don't rot yer teeth for supper--the butt of your joke is,, u guessed it,, ✨ poverty ✨

but to me the real kicker is the cousin fucker jokes. how can you not see that when you snark about inbreeding, when you piss yourself over that infamous billboard and oh, how could anyone possibly need to be told that?!, your punchline is not only poverty and a lack of education enough to develop critical thinking skills and the ability to build safe support networks, but you're also usually guffawing at incestuous rape and vulnerable children on top of it. peak comedy.

really though, how is any of that funny?

what happens to everyone's class consciousness the moment we start talkin about the hollers n the deep south?

why does health insurance, quality education, and food security for all suddenly go from issues worth fighting for to punishments, and ones we deserve to be humiliated for on top of it?

i know im just a dumb ol hillbilly n all, but i reckon i just don't get what we're supposed to be laughin at here

[hellyeahsickaf]

Low Spoons and Hygiene

Sometimes being disabled means struggling with hygiene and that can be embarrassing, even though it's not your fault or a reflection of you as a person. Nobody wants to be stinky or feel dirty, especially when a lot of illnesses and disabilities can entail symptoms like excessive sweating that can make the issue of struggling with hygiene a million times worse.

But smelling bad is the least of your worries, as poor hygiene can lead to things like skin infections. Bacteria and fungi like hanging around in stagnant, often damp areas that collect sweat. And most people have folds- even if just a little, which can be the ideal habitat for dangerous microorganisms. Not changing your underwear/bra or washing your body for an extended period can lead to things like jock itch, intertrigo, yeast infections, athlete's foot, UTIs (anyone can get one and they can spread to the kidneys within days or even hours- and you need those little guys!), all sorts of complications. The existence of foul or sometimes even a slightly "sweet" odor on your body or even in your urine tends to indicate the existence of bacteria (it's why armpits stink) or fungi like candida. Dental hygiene is equally important- an infected tooth or excessive cavities can be bad news. If you experience these things or struggle to regularly care for your body, it's not something to be ashamed of. All of those complications can and do happen to people who do everything right.

Note that issues like UTIs or dental infections don't tend to just go away on their own and need to be treated as urgently as possible.

However, I'll share some things that may prevent or remedy issues like infections and odor that's gotten out of hand and hopefully some may find this list helpful in some way. Any products I've listed may be found at other retailers or at different prices, they're just examples. Feel free to add on to it.

The bare minimum is always better than nothing. Brushing with just a dry toothbrush, using disposable body wipes or a washcloth/sponge instead of a shower, dry shampoo (the sprays are actually pretty bad for you, I'd stay away from those if possible), leave in conditioner, also whole body deodorant is a thing. If the most you can do is change your clothes- hell even just change your bra and/or underwear, it can be the one thing between you and an awful infection.

If infections are a concern, like if say you suffer from chronic UTIs or yeast infections it's advisable to wear breathable cotton underwear.

If you can't get up to brush your teeth or struggle to do so, it may be helpful to purchase disposable toothbrushes. These ones have floss picks attached.

Flossing is just as, if not more important than brushing. If you only have the energy to floss on some days, do that. If you need to keep floss picks and a place to dispose of them near your bed, then that's fine (just don't let it pile on without disposing of it and create a biohazard). it can help remove food particles that help create a breeding ground for bacteria. Also gently moving in and out between your teeth with slight movement if needed is ideal, don't roughly saw across your gums, ouch.

If you struggle with wiping say due to mobility issues, there are products for this. Wiping back to front as an alternative risks yeast infections and UTIs. It's a very common cause of these diseases due to bacteria like e-coli. We do not want that.

Crashing and can't wash your sheets? Out of shirts with no energy to do the laundry today? Antimicrobial fabric spray may help with the odor and bacteria that accumulates on fabric as a temporary fix until you can properly wash it. Try not to wear clothing or interact with fabrics like blankets and couches that are still wet from the spray, as that can irritate the skin.

Try to avoid "feminine wash" products if possible, you don't need the fancy Summer's Eve premium strawberry hibiscus blush scented whatever, it can fuck up your PH and kill good bacteria despite claims to do otherwise. Same with PH wipes. It's recommended not to use soap on your genitalia, especially scented and especially if you have a vagina. If you must use some sort of soap, dermatologists typically recommend the most basic, unscented wash. And do not put it in your body by any means.

Rinse free shower sponges have been a life saver for me, especially the ones that also work as shampoo (it's probably not color safe tho). You just add water, lather, and make sure you dry off well. If it helps you determine how much to buy, I normally find myself using maybe 3-5 sponges each time.

OTC jock itch cream can work for some fungal infections on the body not limited to jock itch but if you see no difference or worsening within a few days of using it, consult a dermatologist as you may need something different or stronger.

Unscented pads and tampons are best and should be changed every 4 hours or so ideally. Never leave a tampon in for over 8 hours. Despite common fears, 9 hours won't give you toxic shock syndrome, that normally takes a few days and is quite rare with tampons but that doesn't mean that 13 hours or something is good or safe. I've just heard some say that sex ed scared them away from tampons after being told stories of TSS. I hear that menstrual cups are also a great alternative that many don't consider.

Monistat and similar yeast infection products often come with different options like 3 day treatment, 5 day treatment, 7 day. I know you want to feel better ASAP, but just take into account that 3 day will be highly concentrated and can cause more burning than the 7 day. Longer treatment may also be more effective in some cases. Penile yeast infections exist as well. Just be aware that some products are more potent than others regardless of birth sex. Antifungals in general may cause itching and/or burning, which some are more sensitive to than others or may even find triggering in cases where it must be applied to the genitalia.

Hydrocortisone cream is your best friend if you're experiencing itchiness due to things like skin infections, contact dermatitis, yeast infections, etc. But please don't use it to mask the symptoms of an infection without treating it.

How frequently you need to wash your hair varies by hair type. This can vary between every 2 days for some and every 1-2 weeks for coily and textured hair. Make sure you look into what is ideal for your hair type. And again on days where you cannot wash, disposable sponges and dry shampoo can be a life saver.

If something is discolored, odorous, itchy, inflamed, bumpy, producing moisture, warm to the touch, oozy, weepy, splotchy, sticky, burning/painful, it may likely be an infection or in some cases an allergic reaction. Familiarize yourself with what different skin infections and diseases may look like on your skin tone. Ringworm and other fungal infections for instance may appear red or pink on fair or lighter brown skin, but on darker skin may appear gray or darker brown.

Fungal infections are also super fucking contagious. To other parts of your body, other people, even to pets. Wash your hands well with antibacterial soap, especially before and after applying any topical treatment or touching the area in any way. After a shower, PAT the infected area dry and do not reuse that towel or use on other parts of the body.

Invest in a shower chair if you feel it may help you, it's one of the best things I've ever bought. I didn't want to get one at first because it felt like I was "giving in" to my disability more and more but that's the internalized ableism talking. Get the shower chair.

A bar to help you stand from the toilet/tub/shower chair may also be helpful.

Again, feel free to add to the list if you want!

[clinicse]

DCİDENTALCLİNİC - DEVASA+ (2)

When it comes to achieving a radiant smile, dental crowns in Turkey are becoming an increasingly popular choice for patients seeking exceptional dental care at competitive prices. With advanced techniques and skilled professionals, Turkey has emerged as a hub for dental tourism, drawing individuals from around the globe. This blog post will explore the diverse options available for dental crowns, alongside essential treatments like endodontics in Antalya and other parts of Turkey. 

Dental crowns turkey

When it comes to restoring damaged teeth, dental crowns Turkey have become increasingly popular among both locals and tourists. These crowns not only enhance the appearance of your smile but also provide essential support to weakened teeth. By choosing Turkey for your dental needs, you may find high-quality treatments at a fraction of the cost compared to other countries.

One of the primary reasons many opt for dental crowns in Turkey is the availability of advanced technology and experienced dentists. Many clinics in popular cities like Istanbul and Antalya use the latest techniques and materials to ensure patient safety and satisfaction. This combination of affordability and quality has positioned Turkey as a leading destination for dental tourism.

Moreover, the dental crown procedures typically involve a seamless experience: from initial consultations to the final placements. Most clinics offer tailored packages that include not just the crowns but also accommodation and transportation, making the entire process convenient for overseas patients. This makes Turkey an attractive choice for those seeking effective dental solutions.

Endodontics antalya

Endodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of dental pulp and the surrounding tissues. In Antalya, numerous dental clinics offer advanced endodontic procedures to address various dental issues, ensuring that patients achieve optimal oral health.

Choosing an endodontist  Antalya provides you with access to innovative techniques and technologies. These professionals are well-trained in procedures such as root canal therapy, which can help save a tooth that is severely infected or damaged. Patients can expect a comfortable experience with modern anesthesia methods and post-treatment care.

Many dental practices in Antalya also emphasize the importance of preventative care in endodontics. Regular check-ups and timely interventions can prevent more serious issues down the line, promoting long-lasting dental health. Whether you require a routine examination or a complex procedure, Antalya offers a wealth of options to meet your endodontic needs.

Endodontics turkey

Endodontics Turkey is a rapidly growing field, where advanced techniques and technologies are used to treat dental conditions affecting the tooth pulp. Patients seeking quality care often turn to Turkey because of its affordable prices and high standards of dental services.

In Turkey, endodontic treatments are performed by skilled professionals who utilize state-of-the-art equipment. This includes digital imaging and modern sterilization techniques, ensuring safety and efficacy during procedures such as root canals.

Choosing endodontics in Turkey not only provides access to expert dental care but also offers an opportunity to explore the beautiful country while getting treatment. Many dental clinics in Turkey cater to international patients, providing personalized treatment pl

Teeth whitining antalya

When it comes to achieving a radiant smile, teeth whitening Antalya has become increasingly popular. Many people seek this cosmetic treatment to enhance their overall appearance and boost their confidence. The beautiful resort city of Antalya offers a variety of dental clinics that specialize in effective teeth whitening procedures.

Apart from the professional services available, patients can expect to find a blend of modern techniques and advanced technology devoted to teeth whitening. Options include in-office treatments that provide quick results and at-home kits that allow for gradual whitening. Both methods can be customized to fit individual needs and preferences.

In addition to aesthetic benefits, teeth whitening can also contribute to better oral hygiene. A brighter smile often encourages patients to maintain their dental care routine, as they become more conscious of their overall appearance. With the picturesque backdrop of Antalya, many find this dental journey to be a rewarding experience.

[nenelonomh]

oral hygiene practices

maintaining healthy teeth and gums is crucial for many reasons:

prevents tooth decay and gum disease. regular brushing and flossing remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can lead to cavities and gum disease if not properly managed.

maintains fresh breath. poor oral hygiene can cause bad breath (halitosis). brushing your teeth, and tongue, and using mouthwash can help keep your breath fresh.

reduces the risk of systemic diseases. there is a strong link between oral health and overall health. poor oral hygiene can contribute to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

saves money. preventive care is often less expensive than treating dental problems. regular check-ups and cleanings can help catch issues early before they become more serious and costly.

so, let's look at some key practices to help maintain your smile.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ brush your teeth twice a day. use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. brush for at least two minutes, making sure to clean all surfaces of your teeth.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ floss daily. flossing helps remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and under the gumline where your toothbrush can’t reach.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ use mouthwash. an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash can help reduce plaque, prevent cavities, and freshen your breath.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ maintain a healthy diet. limit sugary foods and drinks, as they can contribute to tooth decay. eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can support overall oral health.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ stay hydrated. drinking plenty of water, especially fluoridated tap water, helps wash away food particles and bacteria.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ avoid tobacco products. smoking and chewing tobacco can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ replace your toothbrush regularly. change it over every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ visit your dentist regularly. regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential for maintaining oral health and catching any issues early.

i know that i am only reinforcing what your dentist is already telling you - but my purpose is to provide easy information and further reading resources that may teach you something new. by incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy.

unfortunately, i know many people who ignore simple health facts (for a multitude of reasons). but this is not the way! looking after your health and your body is so important!

for further reading:

Oral Hygiene: Best Practices & Instructions for Good Routine | Cleveland Clinic

WOHD23-factsheet-oralhygiene-EN.pdf | FDI World Dental Foundation

Oral Hygiene | National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research

the original oral hygiene post (by me)

❤️ nene

[thehappyvet]

Veterinary medicine is reliant on universal human healthcare.

If humans are paying out of their own pocket for their healthcare, there's less funds available for their pets.

It's a trend we see often during recessions or cost of living pressures, like people giving their pets up for adoption or trying to stretch out elective procedures or checkups as long as possible while things are tight. It's just one of the things we do to try and ease the financial pressures.

With shifts, particularly in Australia, of reduced bulk billing for GP visits and Medicare struggling to cover most procedures this trend is becoming apparent.

We don't have Medicare for pets. Everything is out of pocket unless you have insurance.

If there's less money due to cost of living pressures and rising healthcare costs sadly pets are one of the things we stop spending money on. And if we do, we might be forced to choose high interest loans that can lead to further pressures.

Universal healthcare is a human right. We deserve to have our health issues covered by the taxes we pay.

But it's also essential for animal health and welfare. If society doesn't have to spend its money on their own health, there's funds available to ensure pets get vital veterinary care including check-ups, dental care and diagnostic procedures. We can act early with less invasive treatment and better chances of success.

Veterinarians struggle to practice preventative medicine and are forced into reactive medicine when human healthcare isn't universal.

[mariacallous]

TEL AVIV — Ilana Decker, who moved from Israel to New York three years ago, says she doesn’t agree often with Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Arguing, as he does, that the government should not make health mandates, she said, makes her “sound like an anti-vaxxer, which I’m not.”

But there is one issue, she said, where she and Kennedy do line up: The man whom Donald Trump has picked as the next secretary of health and human services has publicly floated ending the decades-long policy of encouraging cities to inject fluoride into the American water supply.

Decker supports the change — and she’s speaking from personal experience: Her former home, Israel, stopped fluoridating its water a decade ago.

“I hate to align with RFK Jr. in any way, shape, or form, but I really do agree that it should not be in the water,” she said. Citing concerns about the risk to children, she even switched her 4-year-old to fluoride-free toothpaste, though she didn’t rule out its use fully.

“I have a deep distrust in the government taking away individual health choices ‘for our own good,’” Decker said. “I can use toothpaste with fluoride, but I can’t decide to not drink the water coming out of my faucet.”

The nomination of Kennedy, an anti-vaccine activist and harsh critic of government health agencies, has cast a spotlight on debates over the role the government should play in public health — and over the degree to which mounting distrust in science should guide policy-making.

Fluoridation offers a case study in those debates. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fluoridation in water has been shown to reduce cavities in children and adults by about 25% over a lifetime, with the organization dubbing it “one of the 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.”

Critics of fluoridation point to studies showing that very high levels of the mineral — beyond what is normally present in fluoridated water — are associated with developmental problems in children; they also cite an array of conspiracy theories, including that the government is seeking to control citizens through fluoride use.

Kennedy has called fluoride “an industrial waste” and “dangerous neurotoxin” and said that he would seek to end fluoridation on “day one” after taking office. (Water is managed locally, so the federal government can only advise and incentivize changes.) As with vaccines, he has said the use of fluoride should be up to individuals, not the government.

“I think fluoride is on its way out,” he said on NBC News shortly after Trump’s election last month. “I think the faster that it goes out, the better.”

Those same debates lay at the root of the decision in 2013 by Israel’s health minister to end water fluoridation. Now, Israel’s policy change could act as a case study for how defluoridation could affect Americans. And the discourse is ongoing, with Israeli public health experts and some parents agitating for fluoride to be reinserted in the water — citing worsening dental outcomes for children — at the very moment when the United States may move in the opposite direction.

“The success of water fluoridation serves as a beacon for public health in general, and by extension, opposition to it should serve as a warning,” said Shlomo Zusman, who served as Israel’s chief dental officer for over two decades and was a vocal critic of the 2014 policy change.

He said modern water purification methods mean that fluoridation is far from the only way the modern water supply is altered. In addition, he noted that because 75% of Israel’s potable water is desalinated, it has no natural fluoride levels at all.

“The idea that water without added fluoride is ‘natural,’ as if it comes straight from a spring, is mistaken – there’s no such thing, it’s all manipulated,” he said. Referring to a story in the Bible, he added, “The days of Rachel pumping water from the well are long gone.”

Israel began mandating fluoridation in nearly all municipalities decades ago, following the first local American fluoridation efforts. An Israeli Health Ministry webpage calls fluoridation “the most efficient, safest, simplest, cheapest, and most equal measure, by a significant margin, among all methods for preventing dental diseases in the general public.”

But in 2013, the health minister, Yael German, pledged to stop requiring fluoridation the following year, citing unnamed doctors who she said had personally told her that fluoridation presents risks to pregnant women, people with thyroid problems and the elderly. Like Kennedy and his followers, she also cited the importance of individual choice.

“All things considered, and balancing all the interests, I feel that continued massive fluoridation of 100% of the water was an incorrect act,” German wrote to an association of pediatricians that was one of several groups to publicly oppose her plan. “And many even believe it infringes on fundamental rights and freedom of choice.”

The government that succeeded German’s term in office pledged to reintroduce fluoride — prompting legal action from German — but it has not been mandated again in Israel.

Since discontinuing fluoride in tap water, Israeli dentists have observed a significant rise in children’s cavities and have urged its reinstatement, even as some parents remain firmly against the idea.

A study published in September found a significant increase in dental restorations and crowns among Israeli children ages 3 to 5, attributing the rise to fluoride’s absence. The researchers, from the Hebrew University-Hadassah School of Dental Medicine, concluded that the results provided “further proof of the need to restore community water fluoridation in Israel.”

Another study, published in January 2022, analyzed six years of data from dental clinics affiliated with a national Israeli healthcare network, showing that children ages 3 to 12 required nearly double the number of restorative treatments compared to before fluoridation ended. Researchers emphasized that even Israel’s expansion of free dental care for all children failed to offset the worsening dental health.

With fluoridation the subject of widespread misinformation as well as ongoing research, Israel is not the only place to adjust its approach over time. Juneau, Alaska, saw pediatric dental health worsen after eliminating fluoride in 2007, according to a study that examined the cost and frequency of dental treatment for poor children. So did the Canadian city of Calgary, which recorded higher rates of cavity-related treatments under general anesthesia among children after it stopped adding fluoride to its water in 2011. Calgary has now decided to resume fluoridation. But dozens of municipalities across the United States have moved away from fluoride use in recent years, including some whose voters made the choice on Election Day last month.

Most of Europe, meanwhile, has either dropped fluoridation or never introduced it in drinking water. Many of those countries offer fluoridated salt and milk, mitigating the potential costs of not including the mineral in water.

Not everyone in Israel is convinced that reintroducing fluoride is a good idea. In one Israeli mothers’ group on Facebook, several women posited that the country’s cavity epidemic has less to do with the absence of fluoride in water and more to do with poor hygiene habits and children’s consumption of sweets and sugary snacks.

“Kids subsisting on white bread and chocolate spread isn’t helping,” wrote one, naming a popular Israeli snack.

Another, who identified herself as a teacher with 25 years of experience, agreed that there has been a significant decline in nutrition.

“I can say with 100% certainty that children’s diets have deteriorated immensely and it just so happens to coincide with the removal of fluoride,” she said.

Several cited a recent study from the National Institutes of Health’s National Toxicology Program that suggests that high levels of fluoride exposure may be linked to lower IQ in children. The report does not question the dental health benefits of fluoride.

The program reviewed more than 500 studies over nearly a decade and concluded with “moderate confidence” that fluoride exposure at concentrations above 1.5 parts per million is associated with reduced cognitive development in children. But the study, which drew criticism from the American Academy of Pediatrics, also noted that that number was far above the recommended fluoride level in U.S. drinking water of 0.7 parts per million.

Another study from May of this year found that prenatal exposure to fluoride was linked to behavioral problems, with children of mothers in areas with higher fluoride concentrations showing symptoms of autism, anxiety and other disorders by age 3, though the authors stopped short of establishing causation.

Zusman dismissed many of the concerns about health risks as a fad.

“There was a time when they claimed fluoridation caused hip fractures, then cancer, and later stunted growth in boys” caused by osteosarcoma, he said. “Now the fashion is ADHD and IQ, so they blame fluoridation on that.”

He said that just like parents who oppose fluoridation, the issue is personal to him, too.

“Believe me, if there were serious, professional studies showing harm, I’d be the first to say, stop fluoridating the water,” he said. “I have eight grandchildren to think of.”