As the organization representing dental professionals across New York State, the New York State Dental Association (NYSDA) strongly agrees with the American Dental Association (ADA) that adding fluoride to community water supplies is a critically important measure in preventing tooth decay.
Hailed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as one of the ten greatest public health achievements of the past century, more than 75 years of research has proven that fluoridation is safe and effective. It helps keep teeth strong and prevents tooth decay by about 25% in both children and adults. Fluoridation continues to be an efficient and powerful step toward equitable dental care.
On September 24, 2024, a federal court directed the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to take further action regarding fluoride levels in drinking water. However, the ruling did not ban or restrict the use of fluoride in public drinking water. Committed to ensuring optimal and accessible oral health for all New Yorkers, NYSDA strongly cautions towns against altering their pro-fluoridation policies based on this recent ruling. Reversing these policies would undermine decades of scientific consensus and public health progress.
“We understand this ruling has raised questions and concerns about fluoride in community water. While we encourage thoughtful conversation, it should be understood that this remains the most efficient and cost-effective way to deliver fluoride to everyone in the community, further reducing cavities and saving millions of dollars in treatment costs,” said Dr. Prabha Krishnan, DDS, NYSDA president. “We encourage the public to rely on sound, evidence-based science and remain wary of any misinformation circulating online.”
The judge’s recent ruling provided no evidence that fluoridated water is harmful to public health and only asked the EPA to review its regulations.
Approximately 13 million New York State residents currently benefit from fluoridated water. NYSDA remains steadfast in its belief that this number should only increase in the coming months and years.
About the New York State Dental Association
The New York State Dental Association, founded in 1868, is one of the largest state constituents of the American Dental Association and represents more than 60 percent of dentists practicing in New York State. Founded in 1859, the American Dental Association is the oldest and largest national dental society in the world and serves as the leading source of oral health-related information for dentists and their patients.
