Missouri Towns Ending Fluoridation: Kids' Teeth Facts

Are Missouri towns really ending fluoridation?

A few are. KBIA reported in April 2025 that “a few cities in Missouri have already stopped adding fluoride in their water, such as Branson in 2023 and Houston in 2018.” The same story said councils in Rolla and Hannibal had proposed ending it. This is a news report from 2025, so check your own city for current votes.

This post does not take a side. It explains who decides, what the state and CDC say, and what a parent near Wildwood can do either way. We did not find a decision by St. Louis County or by the City of Wildwood on this topic.

Who decides if a town adds fluoride?

Local governments decide. KBIA says the state “has left the decision to local governments.” CDC describes the same split: “State and local governments decide whether to implement water fluoridation.” Your water supplier, city council or district board is the place to ask.

What does Missouri’s health department say?

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services says that “approximately 100 communities in Missouri are currently supplementing the natural fluoride level in the water system to the optimum for dental decay prevention.” It also points readers to a “My Water’s Fluoride” page. For specifics, it says, “contact your local water district.”

The state page describes community water fluoridation as a way to help prevent tooth decay. CDC says fluoride in water combines with the outer layers of enamel, which makes teeth stronger and more resistant to decay. Other people raise concerns about fluoride, and the news story above covers some of that debate. Your child’s dentist can talk with you about your own questions.

How do I check my own family’s water?

Start with the supplier named on your water bill. Ask two plain questions: “Do you add fluoride?” and “What was the level in your last report?” Write down the answer and the date. Water systems can change their practice, so ask again each year.

Some Wildwood homes use public water and others use private wells. Which one serves your address is something only your bill or your supplier can confirm. We do not know your address, and this post makes no claim about any one home’s water.

What changes for kids’ teeth if the water changes?

Water is one source of fluoride among several. CDC says that “fluoridated water and fluoride toothpaste work together to prevent cavities.” If water fluoride goes away, the other sources matter more.

Here are the steps most families take:

1. Ask your water supplier for its current fluoride level in writing.
2. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, using the amount that fits your child’s age.
3. Keep up regular dental visits so early cavities are found while they are small.
4. Ask your dentist about fluoride varnish or other fluoride products for your child.
5. Cut back on sugary drinks and snacks between meals.

Fluoride that comes from many sources can change how enamel looks if a child gets too much while teeth are forming. This is called dental fluorosis. Your dentist helps weigh this against cavity risk, which is why a visit beats guessing.

What if my family uses a private well?

Then no utility reports a number. CDC says well water fluoride can be found only through lab analysis. Read our post on private wells in Wildwood for the steps. For homes on public water, see Does Wildwood tap water have fluoride?.

Where can I learn more about kids and cavities?

Our guide on kids’ cavities and fluoride explains how fluoride works, how much toothpaste to use and when to see the dentist. A child’s early childhood caries risk is worth a conversation at the first visit.

Next step

Our dentistry for kids page describes how our dentists care for children. To ask about fluoride for your child, call (636) 273-5866 or request an appointment.