Despite recent challenges, American Dental Hygienists’ Association warns removal would harm public health, increase dental disease burden
By Stan Goff, Senior Content Editor
Utah recently became the first state to place a complete ban on community water fluoridation, and other states have discussed taking a similar controversial stand, but that isn’t stopping more national health organizations from opposing such bans.
Today, the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA®) released a press release strongly opposing the recent calls to remove fluoride from community water systems across the United States. In light of federal officials reconsidering fluoridation policies, the ADHA stands firm in supporting community water fluoridation as a crucial public health measure that helps Americans of all ages and income levels.
“Decades of research back the safety and effectiveness of fluoridation at recommended levels,” said ADHA President Erin Haley-Hitz, RDH, BSDH, MS, in the press release. “Removing fluoride from drinking water poses a significant risk to public health. The evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of fluoride is robust, and the potential consequences of increased dental decay and related health issues are alarming.”
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data shows community water fluoridation cuts tooth decay by about 25% in children and adults, and this affordable intervention has boosted oral health nationwide for 75 years.
The ADHA points out that U.S. water systems use fluoride at 0.7 mg/L – much lower than levels in studies that fluoride opponents often cite. Health concerns typically stem from research conducted in areas with naturally occurring fluoride far exceeding U.S. fluoridation standards, the association notes.
Opponents of the bans add that removing fluoride would also bring financial consequences. Treating preventable cavities would further strain family budgets and healthcare systems already stretched thin.
This opposition aligns with ADHA’s official position statement issued in December 2024, which reaffirmed the organization’s “strong support of community water fluoridation as a safe, effective and equitable public health measure.” The group’s statement builds upon decades-long ADHA policies that have consistently recognized fluoridation as a cornerstone of preventive dental care.
“We call upon state leaders to prioritize the well-being of their communities by maintaining fluoridation programs that have proven to be beneficial for public health,” Haley-Hitz added. “Let us work together to ensure that all individuals have access to safe and effective measures that promote optimal oral health.”
The ADHA urges policymakers to adhere to proven, science-based approaches, and encourages its members nationwide to continue educating the public about fluoride’s safety and benefits as part of complete oral healthcare.
For more on the recent news that Utah became the first state to place a complete ban on community water fluoridation, click here.
