What’s in Your Water Can Improve Your Oral Health

November 30, 2011 (Ottawa, ON) — The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA) wants
Canadians to know that fluoridation of community water supplies plays an important role in oral
health.

The public debate on fluoridation of water has increased in recent months but water fluoridation
has been safely used since the 1940s. The Office of the Chief Dental Officer indicates there is
widespread usage of water fluoridation across Canada with an overall Canadian average of 45%.
CDHA recognizes that Canadians may be confused about the benefits and safety of fluoride and
has launched a Q and A on community water fluoridation to help educate the public.

“It’s understandable for people to wonder what the fluoride debate means for them and their
families in practical terms,” says Mandy Hayre, Educator-Director on the CDHA board of
directors. “The CDHA urges Canadians to get informed. Find out about water fluoridation in your
community and consult your dental hygiene professional about use of oral health products
containing fluoride.”

The CDHA supports water fluoridation because of its proven benefits in the prevention of dental
caries (cavities); one of the few conditions that affects Canadians of all ages. Fluoride protects
tooth surfaces from acid attack and promotes repair of early cavities. If fluoridated water is
consumed in childhood, teeth become even more resistant to decay.

Fluoridation of community water supplies has been called one of the top ten most significant
breakthroughs in public health of the 20th century. It is a safe, effective and inexpensive way of
protecting the oral health of all Canadians and is supported by Health Canada.

“Fluoride definitely has a place in oral health care, but is just one component of a comprehensive
approach to promoting good oral health,” says Ms. Hayre. The CDHA advises Canadians to take
a number of steps to keep their teeth and gums healthy: brush teeth daily; clean between teeth
with floss or an interdental brush; rinse with over-the-counter mouthwash; make healthy food
choices; and regularly visit a dental hygienist.

For more information on protecting oral health, visit: www.cdha.ca/OralCareCentre