Opinion: Water fluoridation provides benefits, not harm

The debate over water fluoridation is ongoing, despite the endorsements of the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Dental Association, writes Mary Beth Giacona, opinion contributor for The Hill.

Fluoride, like other additives in drinking water (e.g., chlorine), must be used in the right amounts to be effective without causing harm — a concept known as the "therapeutic index." Fluoridated water is considered an equitable public health measure since it benefits everyone, regardless of income or race. Studies have shown that discontinuing water fluoridation can increase tooth decay, particularly among low-income children.

Read more: The Hill

The article presented here is intended to inform you about the broader media perspective on dentistry, regardless of its alignment with the ADA's stance. It is important to note that publication of an article does not imply the ADA's endorsement, agreement, or promotion of its content.