It's Time to Stand Up for Water Fluoridation

Water fluoridation an imperative preventative measure for lifelong good health

MEDIA RELEASE
July 23, 2008

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Read more about community water fluoridation at youroralhealth.ca

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Dental Association (ODA) is speaking out to communities and politicians who are considering removing fluoride from their water by urging them to get the facts from informed medical experts.

“Water fluoridation helps prevent tooth decay – it’s just that simple,” says Hamilton-based ODA President Dr. Larry Levin. “I see it in my office all the time – water fluoridation is something kids need from a very early age – adults need it too. It’s preventative care that will help for life.”

At a symposium sponsored by the ODA entitled “Designing Dental Programs for High-Risk Children,” at the International Association of Dental Research held in Toronto recently, a panel of experts from around the world agreed that water fluoridation is essential in preventative care.

“To remove water fluoridation would be a tremendous step backward,” said IADR presenter and ODA Past-President Dr. Ian McConnachie. “Kids need all the help they can get in life – and we owe it to each and every one of them to ensure that they get this kind of preventative care.”

There are other international experts who agree with the ODA on water fluoridation:

The Health Canada Website of the Office of the Chief Dental Officer reports:
“Experts confirm the benefits of fluoride for dental health.”
The Canadian Dental Association states:
“CDA supports fluoridation of municipal drinking water as a safe, effective and economical means of preventing dental caries (cavities) in all age groups.”
Centre for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia states:
“The CDC has recognized the fluoridation of drinking water to prevent dental decay as one of the 10 great public health achievements of the 20^th century.”
The U.S. Surgeon General states:
“Community water fluoridation continues to be the most cost- effective, equitable and safe means to provide protection from tooth decay in a community.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) states:
“That universal access to fluoride for dental health is a part of the basic human right to life.”

“The ODA is saying to communities and to politicians that it’s time to stand up for water fluoridation – it’s important to your town, your city, your family and your dentist,” says Dr. Levin. “It’s essential to both your oral health and your overall health. If you have questions about water fluoridation, please speak to your dentist today.”

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Kari Cuss
Public Affairs & Communications
Ontario Dental Association

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