What Do Health Experts Say?
American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP)
“The American Academy of Family Physicians supports fluoridation of public water supplies as a safe, economical, and effective method to prevent dental caries.”
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
“Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood, and water fluoridation is one of the most important public health initiatives in the 20th century. The AAP agrees that water fluoridation is beneficial for reducing and controlling tooth decay and promoting oral health in children and adults.”
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD)
“The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) affirms that the use of fluoride in the prevention of caries is safe and effective. The AAPD encourages dentists and dental professionals, other health care providers, public health officials, and parents/caregivers to optimize fluoride exposures to reduce the risk for caries and to enhance the remineralization of affected teeth.”
American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (AADOCR)
“While AADR always welcomes research on water fluoridation safety and effectiveness. Based on the best available evidence at this time, community water fluoridation is safe, effective for caries prevention, and cost-saving. In some communities, community water fluoridation reduces oral health disparities. Therefore, AADOCR supports community water fluoridation and recommends the fluoridation of community water sources to a level of 0.7 milligrams of fluoride per liter of water.”
American Dental Association (ADA)
“The American Dental Association endorses community water fluoridation as a safe, beneficial, and cost-effective public health measure for preventing dental caries (cavities).”
“The American Dental Association (ADA) remains staunchly in support of community water fluoridation at optimal levels to help prevent tooth decay.”
American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA)
“More than 70 years of research have consistently demonstrated that fluoridating public water supplies is a safe and cost-effective way to reduce tooth decay and alleviate the broader burden of dental disease. The ADHA supports this evidence-based practice as part of our mission to improve oral health outcomes and ensure a healthier future for everyone.”
American Public Health Association (APHA)
“APHA is a longtime, proud supporter of community water fluoridation as a safe, effective and cost-saving means of preventing tooth decay. “
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
“Community water fluoridation is a cornerstone strategy for prevention of cavities in the U.S. It is a practical, cost-effective, and equitable way for communities to improve their residents’ oral health regardless of age, education, or income.”
National Academy of Medicine (NAM)
“Fluoride in drinking water is safe and beneficial for dental health when used at optimal levels. In areas where fluoride is added to drinking water, the levels are monitored by the state or municipality to ensure that fluoride levels are safe.”
