Fluoridation Information & Resources
Water Fluoridation: A Commitment to Public Health
The Michigan Oral Health Coalition (MOHC) acknowledges the growing attention on water fluoridation at both local and national levels. Unfortunately, this has been accompanied by a rise in the spread of misleading information.
MOHC firmly supports water fluoridation as the most effective public health measure to prevent tooth decay. In 1945, Grand Rapids, Michigan, became the first community in the world to fluoridate its tap water, setting a global standard. Since then, adjusting fluoride levels to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations has significantly improved the oral health of millions of Americans.
In 2024, Michigan had 1,460 water systems, of which:
- 614 (42%) systems are fluoridated, serving 90.69% of the population.
- Only 1.88% of the total population is optimally fluoridated, and 34.84% is partially fluoridated at optimum levels.
- 846 (58%) systems are not fluoridated, impacting 9.31% of the population.
These figures place Michigan well above the national average of 72.3% fluoridated water systems, and MOHC remains proud of this achievement.
Explore the evidence-based resources from trusted health and oral health organizations linked below. These materials address common questions and dispel misinformation about water fluoridation.
MOHC will continue to engage with stakeholders, monitor media and policy developments, and share relevant resources. We invite you to contribute additional resources to further strengthen our collective advocacy for water fluoridation.
Together, we can ensure that Michiganders continue to benefit from this proven public health initiative.
Resources
American Dental Association
The ADA affirms that community water fluoridation is safe and effective at optimal levels.
American Academy of Pediatrics
The AAP stands by recommendations for low fluoride levels to prevent caries.
American Academy of Pediatrics
FAQs on fluoride and information on discussing fluorination with families.
American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research
The AADOCR continues to support community water fluoridation.
Campaign for Dental Health: I Like My Teeth
The Campaign for Dental Health was created to ensure that people of all ages have access to the most effective, affordable and equitable way to protect teeth from decay — community water fluoridation. They also provide communication tools and other resources.
American Dental Hygienists Association
The ADHA maintains policy and recommendation of low fluoride levels for caries prevention.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Community Water Fluoridation Frequently Asked Questions
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Find local water system information.
National Institute of Health
Consumer Factsheet on Fluoride