A Message from the Chief Public Health Officer

Water Fluoridation

Dental disease is the number one chronic disease in North America. It affects a staggering 96% of Canadian adults, is on the rise among young Canadian children in some areas, and poor dental health increases the risk of other diseases.

Fortunately, many municipalities across the country are choosing to protect their citizens through fluoridation, the process of adjusting the level of fluoride in the water where it is too low.  

Numerous scientific studies show that water fluoridation reduces tooth decay. In 2007, an expert panel of scientific researchers provided Health Canada with advice and recommendations on the current state of the science on water fluoridation. The panel’s report supported the Government of Canada’s position that water fluoridation is a safe and effective public health measure that significantly reduces the rate of dental decay in all segments of the Canadian population.

Canadians concerned about dental fluorosis – mild dental cosmetic effects resulting from excessive intake of fluoride – have no reason to worry. Canadian and international studies agree that water which is fluoridated at optimum levels provides important benefits and does not cause adverse health effects. In addition, children benefit most over a lifetime when they have stronger teeth and healthier gums.  

The use of fluoride for the prevention of tooth decay has been endorsed by over 90 national and international professional government and health organizations. These organizations include Health Canada, the Canadian Public Health Association, the Canadian Dental Association, the Canadian Medical Association and the World Health Organization. In fact, community water fluoridation has been identified by U.S. Centers for Disease Control as one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.

The Public Health Agency of Canada supports water fluoridation for our oral health. Simply put, it is a safe and cost effective public health measure which has the potential to benefit everyone, regardless of age, socioeconomic status, education, or employment.

David Butler Jones
Chief Public Health Officer of Canada

Learn more about the Health Benefits of Fluorides .