AAO, ADA Sign Statement Supporting Community Water Fluoridation

The AAO and ADA have signed a joint letter with other health organizations reaffirming the safety and necessity of community water fluoridation amid federal efforts to end the practice.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and American Dental Association (ADA) are among the signatories of an April 15 joint letter to Congress affirming the importance of community water fluoridation in maintaining public oral health.

The letter, organized by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, brings together a broad coalition of dental professionals, healthcare providers, and researchers to address growing political efforts to end fluoridation programs nationwide. The signers point to decades of evidence showing significant declines in tooth decay since water fluoridation was introduced in the U.S. during the mid-20th century.

“With an abrupt departure from water fluoridation, our nation would undoubtedly experience a rapidly rising incidence of decay. The U.S. does not have capacity in the oral health workforce to support the emergency, surgical and restorative dental needs that would result,” the letter states. “There would be increased pain and suffering, and more missed school and work. None of this is necessary.”

The group expressed concern that opposition to fluoridation has been driven by non-scientific narratives. “The recent discourse surrounding fluoridation is based on incomplete information and has been an exaggerated response driven by political and social rather than scientific perspectives,” it said.

The letter emphasizes the continued need for fluoridation, particularly for vulnerable populations who face barriers to oral healthcare.

“Community water fluoridation has been a proven safe, effective, equitable way of helping us work toward that goal in the United States. Our organizations remain prepared and ready to support local and state efforts to preserve community water fluoridation for the benefit of all,” the group concluded.