The debate over water fluoride is local, state, and soon national.

The discussion surrounding the inclusion of fluoride in drinking water is intensifying across various levels of government.

This month, residents of Naples expressed their opposition to the addition of fluoride in their drinking water, according to a recent article by Ryan Kruger of FOX4.

Naples City Council is contemplating the decision to stop adding fluoride to the drinking water, similar to the approach taken by Collier County.

Dr. Joseph Ladapo, the Florida Surgeon General, advocates for the cessation of fluoride use in drinking water across all communities.

Ladapo stated that “There are additional resources available to individuals in communities, such as using fluoridated toothpaste or fluoride mouthwash.”

Fluoride is regarded by numerous health experts as one of the most significant public health achievements in America.

However, an increasing number of cities and states are implementing measures to eliminate it from drinking water.

Critics contend that it could be associated with reduced IQ levels in children and various developmental challenges.

Proponents argue that adding fluoride to drinking water benefits public health.

“Fluoride plays a crucial role in water as it is absorbed systemically. Having fluoride in our water provides a baseline level of fluoride in our saliva that helps prevent tooth decay,” stated Dr. Alexis Diacznsky, President of the Collier County Dental Association.

The recent guidance from the surgeon general arrives as Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. prepares to implement comparable measures should he be appointed as Health and Human Services Secretary.

According to the CDC, approximately 72% of Americans currently consume some type of fluoridated water.

This article originally appeared on FOX4