Fluoride and Fluoridation

At CDA, we believe community water fluoridation is the single most cost-effective, equitable and safe public health measure to prevent tooth decay and improve oral health.

Community water fluoridation has been cited by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as one of the top ten greatest public health achievements of the 20th century.

Today, nearly 23 million California residents (59.3% of the population) receive fluoridated water, a significant increase from 17% in the 1990s. This progress was hard won through the efforts of CDA leadership and multiple public health stakeholders, dedicated legislative advocacy, and funding from the California Endowment.

There’s still work to be done. California ranks 37th among states for the percentage of the population receiving fluoridated water, and our state’s children have some of the highest rates of decay in the nation. Rising misinformation and national trends in fluoride policy are putting public health more at risk. CDA remains committed to helping California  communities have stronger, healthier teeth through preventative care.