It’s rare that I speak out on political issues.  I’ve always been a “live and let live” person, doing my best to allow others their beliefs without passing judgment.

But there’s a ballot issue on the line here in Portland OR that’s too important to remain silent on, because the ramifications for our health – and our children’s – are too great to ignore.

If you’re ever asked to vote on whether to allow fluoridation of your public water supply

Those in favor of  fluoridation will point to its importance in promoting pediatric dental health. What they’re not telling you is that since fluoridation became commonplace over 40 years ago, it’s been discovered that the safest way to defend our children’s teeth is through topical fluoride treatment, not via fluoridated water.  Research associates water fluoridation with learning disabilities and thyroid insufficiency, both of which have reached epidemic proportions.  Do you want to pay with your children and grandchildren’s mental and hormonal health (and your own!) for something which can be simply and safely accomplished at a dentist’s office, or at home?

People will also tell you that Portland needs to catch up with the 70% of US cities that have fluoridated their water.  Nonsense.  That proves nothing; in fact, some cities are desperately trying to get the toxic fluoride out of their water.  Portland’s pediatric dental health level is superior to most of those cities – no motivation there to add fluoride.  European cities, way ahead of us on the science behind this issue, won’t hear of fluoridating their water.  That’s the model we ought to be emulating.

The fluoride solution that will be added to the water is literally a hazardous material.  When a fluoride spill occurred near the Rock Island, Illinois water treatment plant in 2011, a HAZMAT alert was issued as the spilled solution ate through concrete.  Do you want your children ingesting a solution that toxic?

Video Report: HAZMAT Alert Due to Fluoride Spill

Here’s a well-researched article documenting a myriad of other reasons that water fluoridation is an outdated and harmful idea:

50 Reasons to Oppose Fluoridation

You have the chance to make a lasting impact on the health of generations to come.  Please be well informed on this issue before you cast your vote.

I know I can count on you to deliver the decision that will truly support the health of your children, and yourself.

To the radiant health of our families and our community,

Dr. Shani