Episode 2

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Published on:

4th Aug 2025

02: HOW WATER FLUORIDATION STARTED!

Episode Summary

In this episode of Dental Formulator’s Playbook, Dr. Rob and Tami the controversial topic of water fluoridation and its effects on health, particularly for pregnant women and children. They explore scientific studies related to fluoride exposure, analyze differences in fluoride levels from various sources, and explain how the human body regulates fluoride intake and excretion. The episode offers a measured, evidence-based look at one of the most hotly debated topics in public health.

Dr. Rob and Tami break down the challenges of accurately measuring fluoride exposure, the current debates about its potential impact on IQ, and the difficulty of separating science from politics. While acknowledging the importance of ongoing research, they reaffirm that fluoride at regulated levels remains a safe and effective component of dental health strategy. 

Show Highlights: 

  • The politicized and emotional nature of the water fluoridation debate
  • Scientific evidence regarding fluoride exposure and its effects on IQ and neurodevelopment in children and pregnant women
  • Comparison of fluoride levels found in toothpaste vs. fluoridated drinking water
  • Historical and current regulations on fluoride levels in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada
  • Overview of recent studies and controversies regarding fluoride’s safety and possible neurotoxic effects
  • Challenges in measuring fluoride exposure accurately, including use of biomarkers like blood and urine fluoride levels
  • Legal and regulatory battles, including state- and municipal-level decisions on water fluoridation
  • Role of fluoride in reducing cavities and its long-standing position as a public health success
  • Examination of methodological weaknesses in studies linking fluoride to cognitive issues
  • Importance of balanced, evidence-based scrutiny and ongoing scientific research

 Connect with Dr. Rob (Robert L. Karlinsey, PhD)

🌐 Website: customdentalformulations.com

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About the Podcast

Dental Formulator's Playbook
The Dental Formulator’s Playbook is where science meets strategy in the world of oral health innovation. Hosted by Dr. Rob Karlinsey, a seasoned dental researcher and independent formulator, this podcast is your behind-the-scenes pass to what really goes into creating cutting-edge dental products.

Whether you're a dentist, a dental brand, or just someone curious about how toothpaste, rinses, and other oral care products are developed, you'll find practical insights and real-world takeaways in every episode. Dr. Karlinsey keeps it straightforward and engaging—no fluff, just clear, thoughtful explanations based on years of experience in the lab and the industry.

This show is all about helping dental professionals and product developers think differently, make better decisions, and stay ahead of the curve. If you care about science, results, and doing things the right way, you're in the right place.

About your host

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Robert Karlinsey

Dr. Robert L. Karlinsey is a scientist and formulator with almost 20 years’ experience in dental research. He earned a BS in Physics (University of Scranton) and PhD in Chemical Physics (Indiana University), with postdoctoral work in physical chemistry (Indiana University). As a visiting assistant research professor at the Indiana University School of Dentistry, his research led to an impactful encounter with Dr. George Stookey, and shortly thereafter, the formation of Indiana Nanotech, LLC (now known as Custom Dental Formulations, LLC), of which he spearheaded all research and small-scale manufacturing efforts. Dr. Karlinsey is the inventor of Nanotech’s functionalized tricalcium phosphate systems, which continue to help generate over $100MM in global product sales for a major dental manufacturer. As Principal Investigator, his work has received significant funding through Federal (National Institutes of Health), State (Indiana and Texas), and industry grants and contracts. His research in patented calcium phosphate technologies continue to help generate over $100MM in global product sales. Previously, Dr. Karlinsey has served as Chief Scientific Officer at Therametric Technologies, Inc, and adjunct professor of chemistry at the University of Indianapolis.

Dr. Karlinsey addresses clients’ needs in preventive and cosmetic dentistry, including fluoride- and fluoride-free remineralization, antiplaque/gum health, whitening systems, and more. He is actively involved in clinical and laboratory research designs and performance-backed, customized oral care formulation solutions. And, whenever possible, he favors natural, nature-derived, and/or sustainably sourced ingredients