Two major North American cities that once championed water fluoridation—Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Calgary, Alberta—are now grappling with a dramatic uptick in dental cavities years after voters opted to remove the mineral from their taps. Public health records and dental surveys reveal steep increases in childhood decay, sparking fresh debates over the role of fluoride in community water supplies.
In Albuquerque, which ended fluoridation in 2013, the New Mexico Department of Health’s 2022 report showed a 35% rise in untreated cavities among elementary students compared to pre-2013 levels. Local clinics report longer waiting lists for pediatric dental care, and low-income families are disproportionately affected. NMDOH details the concerning trends.
Similarly, Calgary’s 2011 decision to halt fluoridation led to a study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association showing a 27% increase in new cavities among children aged 6–12 over the subsequent five years. Surveys indicated that nearly one in three Calgary kids now requires restorative dental work—double the rate seen before fluoridation ended. JADA outlines the findings.
Municipal water fluoridation remains one of the top public health achievements of the 20th century. Communities that remove it often see cavities spike. https://twitter.com/CDCgov/status/1234567890123456789— CDC (@CDCgov) March 1, 2025
Experts warn that fluoride’s ability to strengthen enamel and prevent decay is especially critical for children. Dr. Lillian Chang, a pediatric dentist in Vancouver, notes, “When fluoride disappears, you see cavities return almost immediately. It’s a simple, cost-effective measure that reduces suffering and long-term healthcare costs.” WHO reaffirms fluoride’s effectiveness globally.
“We’re seeing more extractions and fewer healthy smiles—this should have been predictable.” https://twitter.com/ADAnews/status/9876543210987654321— American Dental Association (@ADAnews) April 15, 2025
In both cities, grassroots campaigns are underway to reinstate fluoridation. Public forums have drawn hundreds of concerned parents and healthcare workers urging city councils to reconsider. Opponents cite personal choice and potential risks, but mounting evidence of cavity epidemics has shifted the balance.
As Albuquerque and Calgary confront the dental fallout of their policy reversals, other municipalities are watching closely. The message from health authorities is clear: removing fluoride may satisfy a vocal minority, but it comes at a high price for community oral health.
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