Albany, NY— The New York State Dental Association (NYSDA) has released a new video message, reaffirming its support for fluoridation in municipal water supplies and its continued use statewide. This stance aligns with the longstanding position of the American Dental Association (ADA) and the broader healthcare community, which recognize the proven benefits of fluoridated water in preventing tooth decay and cavities. As the value of water fluoridation continues to be widely debated in the media and elsewhere, NYSDA remains steadfast in its advocacy for this important public health measure.

“Good oral health is the gateway for good overall health and can reduce the risks of systemic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Fluoridation in public and municipal water supplies, when maintained at recommended levels, benefits everyone, especially underserved communities. It also saves millions annually in dental costs,” said Dr. Prabha Krishnan, NYSDA president.

More than 75 years of extensive research has shown that fluoride, when used at recommended levels, is a safe and effective means of preventing tooth decay by approximately 25% in both children and adults. Furthermore, the average lifetime cost per person to fluoridate a water supply is less than the cost of a single dental filling. For most municipalities, every $1 invested in water fluoridation generates $38 in savings on dental treatment costs.

Currently, roughly 13 million New York state residents benefit from fluoridated water, which is largely determined and regulated by local municipalities. Reversing these policies would result in the breakdown of decades of public health progress.

NYSDA’s video message can be viewed publicly on NYSDA’s website or by following this link.