Fluoride

Fluoride is a mineral that naturally exists in rocks, soil, and all bodies of water (such as surface water, groundwater, and ocean water). Fluoride helps to build and strengthen the surface, or enamel, of teeth, making fluoride an important factor in preventing tooth decay. As a result, fluoride is added to many dental hygiene products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash, and is even added to community drinking water. 

Community Water Fluoridation is the process of adjusting the amount of fluoride in drinking water to a level recommended for preventing health decay. Adding fluoride to drinking water reduces cavities by up to 25% in children and adults. This means less mouth pain, fewer fillings or teeth pulled, fewer days of school or work missed, and cost savings from less expensive dental treatment! Not only is fluoride important for dental health, but there are economic benefits for the individual and community!

An estimated 2.4 million people (86%) in Connecticut receive optimally fluoridated drinking water from a public water system. Water samples from the public water systems are taken regularly to ensure the water is being fluoridated to the optimal level. 

Community Water Fluoridation is safe and effective in preventing cavities!

To learn more about water fluoridation, please visit the CT DPH website, CDC website, NIH website, American Dental Association website, or the American Academy of Pediatrics website.