The Florida Dental Association supports the optimization of fluoride levels in community water systems. We also support communities having the local option to fluoridate their water systems, and would like to see the state reconsider the policy decision to prohibit community water fluoridation.
In 2014, 74.4 percent of the U.S. population on public water systems received optimally fluoridated water. In Florida, about 77 percent of the population receive optimally fluoridated water.
The public health and financial benefits of water fluoridation are numerous and well documented. Keep reading to get the facts on fluoride.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fluoride and community water fluoridation.
Fluoride is naturally present in all water and is often called “nature’s cavity fighter.” Community water fluoridation is the precise adjustment of fluoride that occurs naturally in a community's water supply to the level recommended for optimal dental health, approximately 0.7 ppm (parts per million).
The benefits of fluoride can be provided in many forms, including fluoride toothpaste, dietary fluoride supplements (tablets, drops and lozenges), professional fluoride treatments (gels and varnish) and optimally fluoridated drinking water. However, community water fluoridation is more cost effective than other forms of fluoride treatments or applications; is accessible to the entire community; provides frequent exposure to small amounts of fluoride, making fluoridation effective for both children and adults in helping to prevent tooth decay; and doesn’t require a change in behavior to obtain the decay preventing benefits.
No. People of all ages and backgrounds will benefit. As we age, many factors can result in less saliva, a condition known as "dry mouth.” The risk of tooth decay increases with dry mouth, particularly on the softer root surfaces. When fluoride is in the mouth, the teeth become much more resistant to decay. Fluoridated water is effective, safe and the least expensive way to reduce tooth decay in children and adults.
Yes. The savings in dental treatment costs to a community by providing water fluoridation are substantial. The cost of one cavity over a person’s lifetime can cost over $6,000. Communities that invest in water fluoridation save an average of $43 in savings for every $1 invested.
