LOS ANGELES, March 28 (Xinhua) -- 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 levels too low to effectively prevent cavities. The CDC recommends a fluoride concentration of 0.7 milligrams per liter of drinking water.

Utah's ban comes amid controversy over the safety of water fluoridation. U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has previously expressed skepticism about the practice.

The ban has sparked opposition from dentists and public health groups, who argue that adding fluoride to water is important for dental health and warn that the ban could lead to medical problems, especially among children. Enditem

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