AHS launches public education campaign on fluoride benefits

CALGARY — Alberta Health Services (AHS) is looking to teach people about the benefits of fluoride with a new educational campaign ahead of Calgary’s plebiscite in the fall municipal election.

AHS says in a release that although there is fluoride in all freshwater, community water fluoridation is necessary to adjust the fluoride level in the public water supply to the recommended level in order to prevent tooth decay.

Alberta continues to struggle with tooth decay in children and adults, and AHS says it’s preventable, especially for people who don’t have access to dental care. AHS also says community water fluoridation offers significant benefits and reaches all residents who are connected to a municipal water supply.

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AHS says it endorses community water fluoridation as a foundational public health measure to prevent dental disease, improve oral health and reduce inequities within communities.

Community water fluoridation is also endorsed by more than 90 other professional health organizations/bodies, including Health Canada, the Canadian Public Health Association, the Canadian Dental Association, the Canadian Medical Association and the World Health Organization.

As part of the campaign, AHS is asking you to:

• Follow Alberta Health Services on Twitter, Facebook and join the conversation using the hashtag #fluoridefacts.
• Check out the Together4Health webpage for Calgary Community Water Fluoridation, and use the Fact or Fiction tool to share any questions, myths, or rumours you may have seen or heard and one of our medical experts will respond.
• Visit ahs.ca/oralhealth for additional information on Community Water Fluoridation in Alberta, including the Science Supporting Water Fluoridation.