SOFI Working Papers in Labour Economics,
Stockholm University, Swedish Institute for Social Research

Abstract: Although water fluoridation is widely implemented to promote dental health, causal evidence of its broader developmental effects remains limited. This study exploits a water fluoridation experiment in Norrköping, Sweden (1952–1962), to investigate the long-term effects of childhood fluoride exposure on human capital outcomes. The results show that early-life exposure to fluoridated water is associated with reduced non-cognitive ability at age 18 and a lower likelihood of high school graduation. These findings highlight the need for careful reassessment of what constitutes safe fluoride levels in public water supplies.

Keywords: water fluoridation; human capital; child development

JEL-codes: I18; I28; J13

65 pages, October 3, 2025

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