Many of Canada’s urban centres have benefitted from community water fluoridation for over 70 years! This
means we have 70 years of evidence showing that community water fluoridation is a safe and effective way
to reduce dental decay for all residents of a community, regardless of age, income, dental insurance
status, etc. Leading national and international health experts, including the Public Health Agency of
Canada, the Canadian Association of Public Health Dentistry, and the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, all strongly support water fluoridation.
How does it work?
Fluoridated water helps to protect teeth in two ways. First, during children’s tooth-forming years, the
fluoride helps to strengthen the enamel of the developing teeth, making them more resistant to decay.
Second, for Canadians of all ages, the fluoride in tap water mixes with saliva to help counteract acid
attacks in the mouth caused by sugar and bacteria. These acid attacks are responsible for tooth decay
When it comes to community water fluoridation, the science is solid. It remains a safe,
effective, and equitable way of reducing tooth decay!