The Oklahoma Dental Association (ODA) today criticized an executive order from Gov. Kevin Stitt that removes a long-held recommendation for appropriate fluoridation in Oklahoma’s public water supplies.
According to the ODA and the medical community, public water fluoridation has played a major role in improving oral health for seven decades. Fluoridation programs have been so successful that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has proclaimed community water fluoridation as one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.
“As dentists, we care deeply about the oral and overall health of our patients,” said Dr. Twana Duncan, an Antlers dentist who serves as ODA president. “Adding fluoride to our public water supply is a safe and effective way to prevent tooth decay, strengthening teeth and improving oral health. By simply drinking fluoridated water, Oklahomans are doing something good for their oral health. Our communities should not be forced to shut down a public health program that has provided so much benefit to so many Oklahomans.”
