Los Angeles, March 29 -- Utah has become the first U.S. state to ban the addition of fluoride in public water systems.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox signed legislation on Thursday that prohibits any individual or government entity from adding the mineral to the state's water supply.
The bill, introduced in January and passed by the state legislature on Feb. 21, is set to take effect on May 7.
Fluoride is a mineral known for its ability to strengthen teeth and reduce cavities. It works by combining with the outer enamel of teeth, making them stronger and more resistant to decay, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
While most water contains trace amounts of naturally occurring fluoride, it is usually at lev...