Protect Fluoride in Kentucky
Fluoride is safe and plays a critical role in preventing tooth decay and promoting good oral health.
Why It Matters in Kentucky
More than 7,000 studies show that community water fluoridation (CWF), the process of adjusting the amount of fluoride in drinking water to an optimal level to prevent tooth decay, is a safe and effective way to improve health and reduce health care costs. It is a critical benefit for millions who can’t afford preventive dental care or live far from a dental provider. Â
Nearly 95% of Kentuckians already have access to fluoridated water through existing community systems. With ongoing shortages of dental providers across the state — especially in rural communities — rolling back fluoridation would remove a critical layer of protection and leave families paying for dental care they otherwise might not need.
With limited Medicaid dental coverage and high out-of-pocket costs, fluoride offers low-cost prevention that keeps people healthy and takes pressure off of emergency care.
Removing water fluoridation could cost the state $19.1 million per year in increased Medicaid expenses for every 10% of the population that loses access to fluoridated water.
Stats
19M
It could cost the state $19 million a year in increased Medicaid expenses for every 10% of Kentuckians that lose access to fluoridated water.
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27%
More than one-quarter of adults in Kentucky don’t have dental insurance.
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25%
Drinking fluoridated water keeps teeth strong and reduces cavities by about 25% in children and adults.Â
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6%
Only 6% of respondents of a national survey think all communities should ban putting fluoride in water.