Bottom Line:
Fluoride in New York’s drinking water is safe, beneficial, and crucial for public health equity. Let’s keep all our kids smiling. To get more insights like this, subscribe to yourlocalepidemiologistny.substack.com (11/11)

If questions come up around fluoride in your community, there are a couple of things you can do:

-Check local water reports.
-Talk to your dentist about fluoride.
-Stay informed and engaged in local health conversations. (10/11)

Though questions may come up locally, and the decision to fluoridate will continue to be made on a county-by-county basis. This year in NYC, Mayor Adams essentially entrusted the health department with the decision to continue water fluoridation, and they are in favor of maintaining it. (9/11)

Most public water systems in New York have been adding fluoride to drinking water for decades. With years of evidence for benefit, I don’t see a big movement to dismantle these systems in New York. (8/11)

Health Equity Matters:
Fluoride protects those without access to dental care. Kids in lower-income families face nearly 3x more untreated cavities. Removing fluoride would widen this gap. (7/11)

Is it Safe?
Another yes. Levels in New York water are tested daily and strictly regulated—far below federal limits. No samples exceeded even half the state safety limits last year. (6/11)

Does Fluoride Work?
Yes! A NY State study showed counties without fluoride had 33% more dental procedures due to tooth decay. (5/11)

New York’s Situation:
Most New York state counties add fluoride to drinking water-around 60–70% of New Yorkers receive fluoridated water. Some major counties like Suffolk, Nassau, and Rockland choose not to. NYC’s water has been fluoridated since 1965. (4/11)

Quick Refresher:
Since the 1940s, fluoride (a naturally occurring mineral) has been added to U.S. drinking water to prevent cavities. Think of it as calcium, but for your teeth—strengthening enamel and preventing decay. (3/11)

There is a national debate on whether we should continue adding fluoride to drinking water. Utah banned fluoride last month. Could bans be coming to New York? (2/11)