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Calgary Reintroduces Fluoride to Improve Children's Dental Health

After a decade-long absence, Calgary reintegrates fluoride into its water supply following residents' concerns over declining oral health among children.

By Vjosa IsaiSource: nytimes.com1 min read
Calgary Reintroduces Fluoride to Improve Children's Dental Health
Image via nytimes.com

In brief

Calgary, the largest city in Alberta, Canada, has decided to bring back fluoride to its drinking water supply, a move prompted by community concerns and worsening dental health among children. The city had previously removed fluoride in 2011, deeming the costs to treat the water with the mineral as outweighing the benefits. However, a recent push from residents, supported by studies indicating that fluoride aids in cavity prevention, has changed officials' minds. Dental experts stress that improved oral health is critical not just for aesthetics but is also linked to overall physical well-being. Despite its benefits, fluoridation has been met with skepticism and conspiracy theories over the decades, including unfounded claims of it being used for mind control.

Fluoride’s return aims to bolster oral health among children and is seen as a strategic public health initiative to combat increasing dental decay. Calgary is determined to provide safe drinking water that enhances its residents' health, particularly among the younger population.

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