November 26, 2024 - The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) maintains its strong support for community water fluoridation (CWF) as a safe, effective and equitable measure to prevent tooth decay and promote oral health. Fluoride is found naturally in air, soil, many foods, and both fresh and salt water, and at optimal levels helps in making teeth more resistant to decay. Its presence in public drinking water ensures that all members of the community, especially those with limited access to dental care, receive vital protection against tooth decay. Although fluoride can be obtained from other sources, like toothpaste, water fluoridation provides an additional benefit for everyone. Research shows that water fluoridation has been instrumental in the overall global reduction in tooth decay, including here in Canada. As a result of the above, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) named CWF as one of the 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.
CDA closely monitors scientific developments and remains confident in the current consensus, which is based on evidence provided by quality research, that fluoridation at optimal levels poses no risk to cognitive health, including IQ. Studies suggesting a link between fluoride and cognitive decline are often limited by methodological flaws, and their findings do not apply to the optimal fluoride levels used in Canada (0.7 mg/L), which are carefully regulated by the Federal-Provincial-Territorial Committee on Drinking Water. Furthermore, the recent U.S. court ruling, while drawing attention to fluoride, does not ban or limit its use in public water and did not provide conclusive evidence of harm at these levels.
Misinformation, especially on social media, often distorts the facts about fluoride. CDA’s position is rooted in science, backed by rigorous studies, and we urge patients and the public to consult their dental professionals for accurate information. At present, there is no scientific basis to reconsider our stance on CWF—it remains a safe, essential tool for promoting oral health across Canada.
About the Canadian Dental Association
The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) is a trusted national voice for dentists and leader working to improve the oral health of all people living in Canada. We promote oral health, support our members, and advance the dental profession. Founded in 1902, the Canadian Dental Association (CDA) is an association that has no regulatory role. It is a federally incorporated not-for-profit organization whose corporate members are Canada’s provincial and territorial dental associations (PTDAs). CDA represents over 21,000 practising dentists nationwide and is a trusted brand and source of information for and about the dental profession on national and international issues.
Media Contact:
Jeff D’Andrea
Media Relations Specialist
Spécialiste des relations avec les médias
Canadian Dental Association
613-523-7963
media@cda-adc.ca
