August 5, 2021
CALGARY — Alberta Health Services (AHS) today launches a public education campaign on the benefits of fluoridated tap water in advance of the City of Calgary’s fluoride plebiscite this fall.
On Oct. 18, Calgary residents will have an opportunity to vote on whether to restore fluoride to the city's drinking water. Although there is fluoride in all fresh water, community water fluoridation is needed to adjust the fluoride level in the public water supply to the level recommended to prevent tooth decay.
Similar to other Canadian provinces, tooth decay continues to be a common health problem in Alberta, for children and adults. These preventable oral health issues are most prevalent among disadvantaged people who do not have the financial resources to receive dental care. Community water fluoridation offers significant benefit and reaches all residents who are connected to a municipal water supply.
Through this campaign, AHS aims to provide accurate, reliable and evidence-based information about water fluoridation:
AHS endorses community water fluoridation as a foundational public health measure to prevent dental disease, improve oral health and reduce inequities within communities. Community water fluoridation is also endorsed by more than 90 other professional health organizations/bodies, including Health Canada, the Canadian Public Health Association, the Canadian Dental Association, the Canadian Medical Association and the World Health Organization.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.
