Access to fluoridated water is a fundamental step in maintaining good oral health and preventing tooth decay. Numerous studies, including those released by the World Health Organization, demonstrate the effectiveness and safety of water fluoridation in preventing dental cavities.

Despite the overwhelming scientific consensus on this topic, the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners, in a 8-2 vote on April 1, 2025, proposed removing fluoride from our drinking water. 

Unless Mayor Daniella Levine Cava vetoes this measure, this decision would severely impact the dental health of our community, particularly those that are disadvantaged or lack access to regular oral healthcare, and will raise healthcare costs for everyone. With dental cavities being one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide, it’s crucial we continue to support proven preventive measures like water fluoridation. Let's make our voices heard and ensure fluoride remains a core component of our public water supply for the health and well-being of our society.

Sign the petition now to keep fluoride in our drinking water.

For more information on why you should support water fluoridation, read below:

Fluoridation has largely been lauded as one of the greatest public health milestones of our lifetime, due to its safety and effectiveness. In fact, fluoridation of public drinking water is one of the most effective and equitable public health measures for preventing tooth decay. The American Dental Association is one of many leading health organizations who publicly support fluoridation and continue to back the overwhelming scientific consensus in favor of doing so. The ADA keeps an online record of the topic of fluoridation in the news and their support of it,

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Association for Dental Research, and the American Public Health Association all support fluoridation. Despite misinformation, the overwhelming scientific evidence supports fluoridation as a safe, cost-effective, and beneficial intervention for communities worldwide.

Decades of research have demonstrated that fluoridated water significantly reduces cavities in both children and adults. Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps to remineralize weakened teeth, reducing the risk of decay. Studies show that communities with fluoridated water experience a 25% reduction in tooth decay across all age groups compared to non-fluoridated areas. Given that dental health is linked to overall health, preventing cavities also lowers the risk of serious infections and systemic diseases.

Water fluoridation is also one of the most cost-effective ways to prevent dental disease. For every dollar invested in fluoridation, communities save an estimated $38 in dental treatment costs. This makes it a particularly valuable measure for low-income populations who may not have regular access to dental care. Preventing tooth decay not only reduces the financial burden on individuals but also alleviates strain on healthcare systems.

Unlike other forms of dental care, fluoridation benefits everyone who drinks tap water, regardless of income level, education, or access to healthcare. It helps bridge the gap for underserved communities, ensuring that all individuals receive essential protection against cavities. Given that dental decay disproportionately affects lower-income populations, fluoridation is an essential tool for promoting health equity.

As mentioned above, concerns about fluoride safety are largely based on misinformation. Extensive research has confirmed that fluoridation at recommended levels (0.7 parts per million) poses no health risks. No credible scientific study has linked community water fluoridation to adverse health effects when properly regulated.

Water fluoridation is a simple, effective, and affordable public health strategy that benefits millions of people. By reducing cavities, lowering dental costs, and promoting equitable access to oral health, fluoridation remains a crucial tool in improving public well-being. Given the overwhelming evidence in favor of fluoridation, Miami-Dade should continue to support fluoridation as a fundamental measure for long-term dental health.

Sign the petition now to keep fluoride in our drinking water.