FLUORIDATION
The City of Grand Junction, Clifton Water District, and Ute Water Conservancy District all practice community water fluoridation as the safest, most effective method for maintaining dental health in the Grand Valley. More than 60 years of credible scientific evidence has consistently indicated that fluoridation of community water supplies is safe. The U.S. Center for Disease Control calls fluoridation one of the 10 great public health achievements of the 20th Century. Additionally, the American Dental Association (ADA) continues to endorse fluoridation of community water supplies as safe and effective for preventing tooth decay. Community water fluoridation reduces dental decay by 20% - 40%. Fluoridation is voluntary in Colorado. The following scientific organizations support community water fluoridation:
American Dental Association (ADA)
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
American Medical Association (AMA)
American Academy of Pediatrics
American Public Health Organization
World Health Organization (WHO)
American Water Works Association (AWWA)
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE)
According to the CDC, there is no association between community water fluoridation and any adverse health effect or systemic disorder, including an increased risk of cancer, Down syndrome, heart disease, osteoporosis and bone fracture, immune disorders, low intelligence, renal disorders, Alzheimer disease, or allergic reactions. As with all harmful chemicals and microbes that may potentially be found in water and cause a public health concern, drinking water providers rely on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other federal regulatory agencies to develop safe and effective regulatory limits and guidance for these constituents, including fluoride.
The Grand Valley water providers are committed to providing our customers with safe drinking water. Fluoride levels are monitored on a daily basis to ensure compliance with the Colorado Department of Health and Environment’s recommended dosage. Please be aware that there are many unaccredited studies available to consumers. These studies can easily be misleading and are not relevant to your domestic water provider’s administration of fluoride.