Two similarly sized cities, one stopped fluoridation, the other didn't, the study shows a 17.6% increase in cavities in grade 2 students[0]. So yes, there seems a benefit of fluoride to children's teeth. Although, better dental hygiene can also do this, and on average cavities have trended down around the world (fluoride in water or not).

But that's not what the article is about.. is fluoride dangerous for humans to ingest? (also yes) So given there are more direct ways to get fluoride to teeth (toothpaste - somewhat, varnishes, lacquers or rinses - good), should we continue to cause damage to all in the name of helping young children's teeth?

https://cumming.ucalgary.ca/news/calgary-childrens-dental-he...