The American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) has joined a coalition of more than 250 health and advocacy organizations in signing a joint letter to Congress affirming the safety and public health benefits of community water fluoridation. The letter, addressed to members of the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate on April 15, expresses concern over recent efforts to challenge or halt the practice at the federal level.
The coalition, which includes dental associations, pediatric groups, oral health coalitions, and public health advocates, warns of the potential consequences of ending fluoridation in public water systems. The letter emphasizes the historical role of fluoridation in reducing tooth decay since its widespread adoption in the mid-20th century.
“Our organizations unite in deep fear of the consequences of the cessation of water fluoridation,” the letter states. “With an abrupt departure from water fluoridation, our nation would undoubtedly experience a rapidly rising incidence of decay.”
According to the signatories, many of the arguments against water fluoridation rely on incomplete or misinterpreted data and do not reflect the extensive scientific research supporting its safety and effectiveness. The letter states that community water fluoridation remains a key method for preventing dental caries, particularly among populations with limited access to dental care.
“Much of the recent discourse is based on incomplete information and interpretation of studies that have limitations undermining their usefulness,” the letter continues. “The public view of this information has been an exaggerated response driven by political and social influences rather than scientific perspectives.”
The coalition opposes any federal action that would override state or local control of fluoridation decisions, calling such a move a significant shift in public health policy. Instead, the organizations advocate for continued local decision-making supported by scientific evidence and ongoing research.
In signing the letter, ADHA joins other national organizations including the American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, and American Public Health Association, as well as numerous state and regional dental societies and health coalitions.
The letter concludes by reaffirming support for community water fluoridation as “a proven safe, effective, equitable way of helping us work toward [oral health] goals in the United States.”
The full list of signatories and the complete letter were submitted to Congress and shared with officials at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
