Protecting New Jersey's Smiles: The Importance of Community Water Fluoridation 

Oral health is essential to overall well-being, yet tooth decay remains one of the most common chronic diseases, especially among children and vulnerable populations. Cavities are five times more common than asthma and seven times more common than hay fever¹, despite being largely preventable. One of the most effective and cost-efficient ways to combat this issue is community water fluoridation—a proven public health measure that strengthens teeth and reduces the risk of decay. 

What You’ll Find on This Page 

• An overview of community water fluoridation and its benefits.
• A summary of key insights from the American Dental Association's (ADA) Fluoridation Fact Guide. 

• New Jersey State resources, including tools to check if your water is fluoridated. 

Understanding Community Water Fluoridation 

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel, helping to prevent cavities. While it is found in toothpaste and professionally applied during dental visits, fluoridated water ensures consistent and equitable protection for all residents. 

Why It Matters 

• Reduces tooth decay across all age groups and demographics, especially helpful in preventing oral health disparities for low-income and elderly individuals. ² 

• Saves money—for every $1 invested in fluoridation, communities save $32 in dental treatment costs. ³  

• Supported by science—endorsed by 100+ medical and public health organizations, including the American Dental Association (ADA), World Health Organization (WHO), and American Medical Association (AMA).  

Despite these benefits, New Jersey ranks 49th in the nation for water fluoridation, leaving many residents, especially children, vulnerable to preventable dental issues. 

The Science Behind Community Water Fluoridation 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognizes community water fluoridation (CWF) as one of the ten greatest public health achievements of the 20th century due to its significant role in reducing cavities since its introduction in 1945. With over 75 years of research confirming its safety, CWF remains one of the most cost-effective and equitable ways to deliver fluoride to the public, benefiting individuals regardless of income, age, or education level. Drinking optimally fluoridated water has been shown to reduce cavities by 25% in both children and adults, leading to less pain, discomfort, and fewer missed days at school or work. ⁴  

Executive Summary & Introduction 

An overview of fluoride’s role in oral health, the science behind community water fluoridation, and why it remains a vital public health measure. 

The Benefits of Fluoridation 

• What is fluoride? Explains how fluoride strengthens teeth and prevents decay. 

• How does fluoridation work? Highlights fluoride’s impact on oral health. 

• Natural vs. adjusted fluoride levels—understanding fluoride sources in drinking water. 

• Fluoride effectiveness—evidence on the long-term success of community water fluoridation. 

• Fluoride for children and adults—how all age groups benefit 

Safety & Common Questions 

• Is fluoride harmful? Addresses safety concerns and scientific evidence 

• Regulatory standards—how fluoride levels are monitored by the EPA and public health agencies 

• Fluorosis and other concerns—explains mild dental fluorosis and how to prevent it 

• Common myths vs. scientific facts —combats misconceptions around fluoridation  

Public Policy & Opposition 

• How fluoridation is regulated—explains federal and state oversight 

• Public health policies—the role of government in promoting fluoridation 

• Common opposition tactics—debunking misinformation 

• International perspective—how fluoridation is used worldwide 

Cost & Practicality 

• Fluoridation saves money—why it is a cost-effective public health strategy 

• Impact on infrastructure—addressing concerns about water pipes and environmental effects 

Click here to view additional resources from the ADA

Despite the overwhelming scientific consensus supporting fluoridation, New Jersey lags behind the rest of the country in providing fluoridated water. As of 2022, only 16.2% of New Jersey's population receives fluoridated public water, ranking the state 49th out of 50. This is significantly lower than the national average of 72.3% ⁵ 

Despite the proven benefits of fluoride in preventing tooth decay and the stark contrast between New Jersey’s fluoridation rates and the national average, expanding access to fluoridated water is not an easy process. Misinformation and misconceptions about fluoride have led to public hesitation and policy roadblocks, leaving many residents—especially children—at risk for preventable dental disease. However, you can take action. By educating your community, engaging with policymakers, and sharing accurate information, you can help advocate for science-backed public health measures that protect New Jersey’s smiles. 

Here’s how you can take action: 

Find Out If Your Water is Fluoridated 

Check your municipality’s fluoride status through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP):

Click on the link above, scroll through and click on your municipality, press submit, it will show you the water departments that serve that area, then press “Click for Details” to see the fluoride levels reported at each point in time, scroll down to the bottom of the table for the most recent samples. If the reported levels are near the recommended 0.7 mg/L, then your community’s water is fluoridated. Re-click the link above to choose a new municipality.  

Advocate for Fluoridation in Your Community 

Contact your local water authority, or municipal elected offices to express support for expanding fluoridation efforts. 

Educate & Share Accurate Information 

While we wait for legislative action on this issue, you can still play a vital role in raising awareness about the benefits of fluoride.

Here’s how: 

Engage Your Community Online 

Use the ADA’s Fluoridation Facts to create social media content that educates your online community about the safety and benefits of water fluoridation. Share infographics, videos, and testimonials to help counter misinformation and spread awareness. 

Empower Your Patients with Practical Tips 

While community water fluoridation is an important preventive measure, individuals can increase their fluoride intake through topical solutions such as: 

✅ Fluoride toothpaste – Use an ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste twice daily. 
✅ Fluoride mouth rinses – Over-the-counter or prescription-strength rinses can provide added protection. 
✅ Professional fluoride treatments – Dentists can apply fluoride varnishes, gels, or foams during routine visits. 
✅ Fluoridated tap water – When available, encourage patients to drink and cook with fluoridated water instead of bottled water, which may not contain fluoride. 

By educating patients and the broader community, we can continue advancing oral health efforts while advocating for long-term policy solutions. 

References: 

1 Benjamin RM. Oral Health: The Silent Epidemic. Public Health Rep. 2010 Mar-Apr;125(2):158-9. doi: 10.1177/003335491012500202. PMID: 20297740; PMCID: PMC2821841.  

2 American Public Health Association. (2014). Community Water Fluoridation in the United States. Retrieved from APHA Website. 

3 O'Connell, J., Rockell, J., Ouellet, J., Tomar, S. L., & Maas, W. (2016). Costs And Savings Associated With Community Water Fluoridation In The United States. Health affairs (Project Hope), 35(12), 2224–2232. https://doi.org/10.1377/hlthaff.2016.0881 

4 Griffin, S. O., Regnier, E., Griffin, P. M., & Huntley, V. (2007). Effectiveness of Fluoride in Preventing Caries in Adults. Journal of dental research, 86(5), 410–415. https://doi.org/10.1177/154405910708600504 

5 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). 2022 Water Fluoridation Statistics. Retrieved from CDC Website. 

Updated March 2025