Download PDHA Water Fluoridation Press Release

Press Release
Community Water Fluoridation
The Dental Hygienists’ Association of [insert county name] supports water fluoridation as a safe and
effective method for reducing the incidence of dental caries (tooth decay).
Recognizing that the Centers for Disease Control named community water fluoridation as one of the top
ten public health disease prevention strategies and that community water fluoridation can benefit all
residents regardless of household income or access to health care, we urge the [insert city or county
name] public water system to [retain/include] fluoride in their water.
Fluorine, from which fluoride is derived, is the 13th most abundant element and is released into the
environment naturally in both water and air. Community water fluoridation adjusts the natural fluoride
concentration to the level recommended for optimal dental health. Good scientific evidence shows it is
effective, safe and an inexpensive way to prevent tooth decay.
Although tooth decay has decreased in the adult population in past years, the rate has increased in
young children. It is serious for decay to develop in “baby teeth” because the disease progresses rapidly
and puts the child at risk for many negative consequences in their development. Severe tooth decay can
even lead to blood infections and death.
Many adults suffer pain from tooth sensitivity and can lose teeth because of root surface cavities. Adults
often do not have dental insurance and the cost to get dental treatment is prohibitive. Many
preventable tooth related problems end up as Hospital Emergency Room cases.
Small frequent exposures to fluoride, such as in drinking water and toothpaste, can stop or even reverse
the tooth decay process in both children and adults.
If you have questions or need more information, please contact the _________________ Dental
Hygienists’ Association. We are happy to be a reliable resource for all oral health information.