Dentists Warn of Removing Fluoride in NY Water. But Many Upstate Counties Already Don’t Have It

Water fluoridation has long been recognized as one of the most effective public health measures to prevent tooth decay. However, recent discussions around removing fluoride from New York’s public water supplies have sparked significant debate. Dentists across the state are voicing strong warnings against such a move, emphasizing the proven benefits of fluoride for dental health. Interestingly, many upstate New York counties already do not have fluoridated water, raising questions about dental health disparities and public safety.

The Current Debate: Why Remove Fluoride from NY Water?

Some city officials and community groups have proposed removing fluoride from public water due to concerns about potential health risks, personal choice, or environmental considerations. The debate often centers on:

• Potential health effects of fluoride consumption
• Arguments that fluoride should be a personal choice rather than mandated
• Misinformation and myths circulating online about fluoride toxicity
• Budget and infrastructure costs related to water fluoridation

Despite these concerns, the overwhelming majority of scientific research supports fluoride’s safety and effectiveness at recommended levels.

Why Dentists Strongly Oppose Removing Fluoride

Leading dental professionals and organizations, including the American Dental Association (ADA), have repeatedly warned against ending water fluoridation programs. Their reasons include:

• Proven cavity prevention: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, significantly reducing tooth decay especially in children.
• Community-wide benefits: Water fluoridation benefits all residents, regardless of age or socioeconomic status.
• Cost-effective: Preventing dental disease through fluoridation saves millions in healthcare and treatment costs.
• Supporting dental equity: Fluoride in water helps protect vulnerable populations who may have less access to dental care.

Upstate New York’s Fluoride Landscape: Many Counties Without Fluoridated Water

While the fluoridation debate heats up in urban areas such as New York City, many upstate counties already lack fluoride in their municipal water. This discrepancy creates varying dental health outcomes across New York State.

The lack of fluoride in these regions correlates with higher rates of dental caries among children and adults, according to local health surveys.

Benefits of Fluoride in Drinking Water

Fluoride in community water supplies provides numerous dental health benefits, supported by decades of research and public health data:

• Reduces tooth decay by 25% in children and adults, significantly lowering cavities and related treatments.
• Strengthens enamel during tooth development, making teeth more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugars.
• Cost savings for families by decreasing the need for fillings, crowns, and other expensive procedures.
• Accessible and equitable: Unlike toothpaste or dental visits, fluoridated water reaches every member of the community regardless of income.

Additional Practical Tips for Maintaining Dental Health:

• Brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks.
• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
• Consider fluoride varnish or supplements if you live in non-fluoridated areas.

Case Study: Dental Health Trends in Upstate Counties Without Fluoride

In counties like Chenango and Tioga, where water fluoridation is absent, local health departments report higher rates of cavities and dental emergencies than their fluoridated counterparts. For example:

• Higher pediatric dental visits: Clinics see more children with untreated decay.
• Increased tooth loss among adults.
• More emergency room visits for dental pain and infection.

This data highlights the protective role of fluoridated water and the public health gaps created by its absence.

First-Hand Insights from Local Dentists

Dr. Susan Martinez, a pediatric dentist in Broome County, shared her concerns:

“Many of my young patients come from non-fluoridated areas, and we see a higher incidence of cavities that could easily be prevented with community water fluoridation. Removing fluoride from larger city supplies could widen these disparities even more.”

Similarly, Dr. James O’Neill of Tompkins County emphasized:

“Fluoride is a safe, scientifically proven way to protect teeth. The misinformation causing communities to consider removing it is alarming and undermines decades of dental progress.”

Conclusion: Fluoride Remains Essential for Dental Health in New York

The ongoing discussion about removing fluoride from New York City’s water highlights an important conversation about public health and personal choice. However, evidence shows that fluoride in community water is a safe, cost-effective tool for preventing dental decay and improving oral health equity.

With many upstate counties already lacking fluoridated water and experiencing higher dental disease rates, removing fluoride from larger regions in New York could deepen these health gaps. Dentists and public health experts urge policymakers to maintain water fluoridation and educate communities on its benefits to protect smiles across the state.

For residents in non-fluoridated areas, practical dental care practices remain essential, including regular dental visits and fluoride treatments. Ultimately, safe, fluoridated water is a cornerstone of healthy teeth and communities in New York.

For continued updates on fluoride policies and dental health news in your area, visit Press & Sun-Bulletin.