Oral Health

In 2022, about 209 million people—approximately 63% of the total U.S. population—were receiving fluoridated water through community water systems, according to the CDC’s latest Water Fluoridation Statistics report released in 2024.

However, recent policy debates and local decisions are beginning to change the landscape. Last year, Utah and Florida became the first states to enact statewide bans on community water fluoridation and, currently, nine other states are also considering similar bans or limitations, or making it optional for individual communities.

The ADA remains a strong supporter of community water fluoridation at optimal levels, calling it “safe, effective, and necessary” to prevent tooth decay. In mid-2025, the ADA voiced support for a new federal bill—the Protect Our Treatment for Enamel,...