FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ADHA Supports Community Water Fluoridation Amid Recent Challenges
American Dental Hygienists’ Association warns removal would harm public health, increase dental disease burden
CHICAGO, April 9, 2025 – The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA®) strongly opposes recent calls to remove fluoride from community water systems across the United States. In light of federal officials reconsidering fluoridation policies, the ADHA stands firm in supporting community water fluoridation as a crucial public health measure that helps Americans of all ages and income levels.
“Decades of research back the safety and effectiveness of fluoridation at recommended levels,” said ADHA President Erin Haley-Hitz, RDH, BSDH, MS. “Removing fluoride from drinking water poses a significant risk to public health. The evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of fluoride is robust, and the potential consequences of increased dental decay and related health issues are alarming.”
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data shows community water fluoridation cuts tooth decay by about 25% in children and adults. For over 75 years, this affordable intervention has boosted oral health nationwide and ranks among the top public health achievements of the last century.
The ADHA points out that U.S. water systems use fluoride at 0.7 mg/L – much lower than levels in studies that fluoride opponents often cite. Health concerns typically stem from research conducted in areas with naturally occurring fluoride far exceeding U.S. fluoridation standards.
Removing fluoride would also bring financial consequences. Treating preventable cavities would further strain family budgets and healthcare systems already stretched thin.
This opposition aligns with ADHA’s official position statement issued in December 2024, which reaffirmed the organization’s “strong support of community water fluoridation as a safe, effective and equitable public health measure.” The statement builds upon decades-long ADHA policies that have consistently recognized fluoridation as a cornerstone of preventive dental care.
“We call upon state leaders to prioritize the well-being of their communities by maintaining fluoridation programs that have proven to be beneficial for public health,” Haley Hitz added. “Let us work together to ensure that all individuals have access to safe and effective measures that promote optimal oral health.”
The ADHA urges policymakers to adhere to proven, science-based approaches. The association encourages its members nationwide to keep educating the public about fluoride’s safety and benefits as part of complete oral healthcare.
For more information about community water fluoridation and ADHA’s position, visit adha.org/fluoride.
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About the American Dental Hygienists’ Association
The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) is the only organization representing the professional interests of the more than 220,000 dental hygienists in the United States. Dental hygienists are preventive oral health professionals, licensed in dental hygiene, who provide educational, clinical and therapeutic services that support total health through the promotion of optimal oral health. The Journal of Dental Hygiene (JDH), published bi-monthly, is ADHA’s scientific journal and flagship publication. To learn more about the ADHA, dental hygiene or the link between oral health and general health, visit www.adha.org.
Media Contact
Bronwyn Barrera, MBA
ADHA
(312) 440-8911
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