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Fluoridation

Fluoridation of public water supplies stands as one of the most successful and cost-effective public health strategies for improving oral health across all age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds. For over 75 years, extensive scientific research has consistently shown that maintaining optimal fluoride levels in drinking water significantly reduces the prevalence of tooth decay—one of the most common chronic diseases affecting children and adults alike.

In Alabama, where oral health disparities persist as a significant concern, water fluoridation plays a vital role in protecting communities—especially those with limited access to dental care. Supporting community water fluoridation helps ensure a healthier, more equitable future for all Alabamians.

Drinking Water Week

Drinking Water Week 2026 was May 3-9. Governor Kay Ivey signed the Drinking Water Week Proclamation, acknowledging the vital importance of drinking tap water in Alabama. In attendance were representatives from the Alabama Rural Water Association, the Alabama Department of Public Health, the Alabama Dental Association, the Alabama Department of Rural Health, the UAB School of Dentistry Alumni Association, and the Alabama Academy of General Dentistry. (Click on the image to the right to see the full-size proclamation and photo.)

A Message From I Like My Teeth...

Share the Water, Share the Love | Comparte el agua, comparte el amor

Training: Fluoridation - Educating Patients and the Public

Friday, May 8, 2026

Speakers from the American Fluoridation Society summarized recent research on the benefits and safety of fluoride. Participants received tips on how to talk about fluoride and fluoridation in ways that resonate more with the public. This event was hosted by the Oral Health Coalition of Alabama in conjunction with the Alabama Dental Association, the Alabama Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the Alabama Rural Health Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the UAB School of Dentistry, and the Alabama Department of Public Health. Watch two of our presenters on YouTube at the links below:

Video: Fluoridation: Educating Patients and the Public
Video: Speak Up For Fluoridation With Confidence

Fluoridation Toolkit

In support of Community Water Fluoridation and the positive impact it has had on oral health across the nation for over 70 years, the Alabama Department of Public Health Oral Health Office has drafted a State Fluoridation Toolkit for download, printing, sharing, and distribution across Alabama.

Through collaboration with the Michigan Oral Health Coalition, the Missouri Oral Health Coalition, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), we are proud to present this Fluoridation Toolkit to aid in educating about and understanding the positive impact and continued use of community water fluoridation.

Download your copy of the State Fluoridation Toolkit!

For more than 70 years, community water fluoridation has been scientifically proven to reduce dental caries and improve the quality of life for adults and children across the United States. Fluoridation is the process of adjusting the naturally occurring fluoride in water to a level known to reduce tooth decay and promote good oral health. All water contains some level of the mineral fluoride; however, most natural sources are too low to have any impact on cavity prevention. By adjusting the amount of fluoride in drinking water to an optimal level, community water fluoridation has been shown to prevent cavities and save money both for families and the health care system.

The science and research behind community water fluoridation have proven that it is both safe and effective. As a result, the number of people who continue to benefit from this standard oral health practice has grown to more than 75% of the U.S population. Community water fluoridation is supported by the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the US Public Health Service, the World Health Organization, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. With all the benefits of community water fluoridation, it is clear why the CDC named it one of the 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.

For more information, visit the CDC's Oral Health section.

Fluoride in Water (American Dental Association)
AAP Recommends Fluoride to Prevent Dental Caries (American Academy of Pediatrics)

Visit the CDC's My Water's Fluoride for information on the State of Alabama. To find out more about Alabama's water supply, visit the Alabama Department of Environmental Management.