Dentists Warn of Removing Fluoride in NY Water. But Many Upstate Counties Already Don’t Have It – Press & Sun-Bulletin

Fluoride has long been celebrated as a public health milestone that significantly reduces tooth decay and cavities. However, recent debates surrounding the removal of fluoride from New York’s public water systems have raised concerns among dental professionals. Interestingly, many upstate New York counties have never had fluoride added to their water in the first place. This article explores why dentists are cautioning against the removal of fluoride in NY water, delves into the current status across upstate counties, and explains the crucial dental health benefits of fluoridated water.

The Debate Over Fluoride Removal in New York Water Systems

The state of New York has seen ongoing discussions about whether to maintain or remove artificially added fluoride in municipal water supplies. Proponents of removal argue concerns over potential health risks and personal freedom of choice, while dental experts emphasize fluoride’s proven benefits in preventing dental decay.

Why Dentists Advocate Keeping Fluoride in Water

• Reduction of Tooth Decay: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps reverse early decay.
• Cost-Effective Prevention: Fluoride in water reduces dental treatment costs by lowering cavity rates.
• Equity in Oral Health: Community water fluoridation benefits all residents, including those without easy access to dental care.

Dental professionals warn that removing fluoride could lead to an uptick in cavities and oral health problems, especially in vulnerable communities.

Upstate New York: Many Counties Without Fluoride

Interestingly, despite ongoing debates in downstate areas, many counties upstate have never included fluoride in their drinking water. Some communities rely on naturally occurring fluoride levels that are too low to be effective. Here is a snapshot of the fluoridation status in selected upstate New York counties:

For residents in counties without fluoridated water, dentists emphasize taking additional preventive care, including regular dental visits and using fluoride toothpaste or mouth rinses.

Benefits of Fluoride in Drinking Water

Understanding why fluoride is added to water can help clarify why its removal is concerning for healthcare providers. Here are the prominent benefits backed by decades of research:

• Prevents Tooth Decay: Fluoride remineralizes tooth enamel, making teeth more resistant to acids from bacteria and sugars.
• Supports Children’s Dental Health: Decreases the incidence of cavities among children, promoting lifelong oral wellness.
• Improves Bone Health: At recommended levels, fluoride supports bone strength without causing harm.

Who Benefits Most?

Fluoride is particularly beneficial for:

• Children during tooth development
• Communities with limited access to dental care
• Individuals at higher risk of dental decay

Practical Tips for Residents Without Fluoridated Water

For those living in upstate counties lacking water fluoridation, maintaining proper dental health becomes even more important. Here are some expert tips recommended by dentists:

• Use Fluoride Toothpaste: Daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste helps protect teeth.
• Consider Fluoride Mouth Rinses: Over-the-counter or prescription fluoride rinses add extra defense against decay.
• Maintain Regular Dental Checkups: Routine exams help catch cavities early and enable preventive treatments like fluoride varnishes.
• Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods: Diet plays a vital role in dental health; reducing sugar intake minimizes decay risk.
• Drink Tap or Bottled Water with Fluoride: Where possible, choose sources with beneficial fluoride content.

Case Study: Impact of Fluoride Removal in Other Regions

Several communities across the U.S. and world have removed fluoride from their water systems, offering insight into potential outcomes. For example:

• Portland, Oregon: Removed water fluoridation in 2013; since then, local dental associations reported increases in dental decay rates, particularly among children.
• Calgary, Canada: Stopped fluoridation in 2011; data showed a subsequent rise in tooth decay prevalence after several years.

These case studies align with warnings from dental professionals in New York, strengthening the case for retaining fluoride in public water.

Conclusion: Why Fluoride Matters in NY Water Systems

As New York debates the future of fluoride in drinking water, it’s clear that many upstate counties already face challenges due to lack of fluoridation. Dentists across the state caution that removing fluoride could increase dental health problems, raising costs and health risks. Fluoride remains one of the most effective and equitable tools for preventing tooth decay and promoting lifelong oral health. Regardless of where you live, understanding fluoride’s benefits empowers you to make informed decisions for your family’s dental care.

Stay proactive: If your community’s water is not fluoridated, consider discussing supplemental fluoride options with your dentist, maintain excellent oral hygiene, and schedule regular dental visits to protect your smile.