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The American Association of Public Health Dentistry (AAPHD) recommends community water fluoridation (CWF) as a safe and beneficial evidence based practice to promote oral health and overall health. November 2024 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists community water fluoridation (CWF) as one of the 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century because of the dramatic decline in cavities since the onset of community water fluoridation in 1945. Over 75 years of research has demonstrated the safety of CWF. It is one of the most cost-effective and equitable ways to deliver fluoride to communities regardless of income, age or education level. Drinking water from an optimally fluoridated community water system has the potential of reducing cavities by 25% for children and adults. This ultimately results in less pain, discomfort and missed time from school or work. Optimally fluoridated water systems can be a cost savings to community members and the community in general. Communities that have fluoridated water can save an average of $32 per person a year by preventing cavities. Communities of 1,000 or more citizens can also see an estimated return on investment of $20 for every $1 spent fluoridating the water. The return on investment increases as the community increases in size. According to the CDC, CWF is also recommended by various public health, medical and dental organizations including the American Dental Association (ADA), American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), U.S. Public Health Service and the World Health Organization. Resources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Community Water Fluoridation Facts |