Nature puts some fluoride into all of the world's drinking water. Some areas in Canada have enough natural fluoride in their water to help prevent tooth decay. In Alberta, only 2-3 percent of people have access to drinking water with large amounts of natural fluoride. One example is the community of Coronation.
Fluoridation is the process of adjusting the water's natural level of fluoride up to a level where it offers benefits to dental health. Fluoridation has been used to reduce tooth decay in communities around the world for more than 50 years.
What are the benefits of fluoridation?
Water fluoridation is an inexpensive, effective way to limit tooth decay. Children drinking fluoridated water can expect up to 35 percent less tooth decay.
Is fluoridation safe?
There is no good evidence that water fluoridation causes any health problems. Since the 1940s, fluoridation has been one of the most thoroughly researched public health measures. Fluoride occurs naturally in water and food.
Can children get too much fluoride from drinking fluoridated water?
The most common source of too much fluoride is from swallowing toothpaste, not from water or foods. Children should use no more than a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and be supervised while brushing their teeth. They should spit out well after brushing.
Does fluoride benefit adults and seniors?
Yes, studies show that adults have less decay, and seniors can have up to 35 percent less root decay if they drink fluoridated water regularly.
Who supports fluoridation?
Fluoridation is widely endorsed by the many respected organizations including:
- The World Health Organization
- Health Canada
- The Canadian Medical Association
- The Canadian Dental Association
- The Canadian Public Health Association
- The Alberta Dental Association
- The Alberta Dental Hygienists' Association
- The Calgary Health Region
- The Calgary and District Dental Society
- Capital Health
What does it cost to fluoridate water?
In the City of Calgary, water fluoridation costs about 60 cents per person per year.
What Alberta communities have water fluoridation?
About 75 percent of Albertans have access to fluoridated drinking water.
Do other countries have water fluoridation?
Yes. Many countries, serving a population of about 300 million people, use fluoridated water. Some examples are: Australia, Brazil, Canada, New Zealand, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States.
