Consider the following:

• Article from the Journal of the American Medical Association, Aug. 27, 2008.

• Oregonian article by Susan Nielsen, "More Than Just a Pretty Smile." Jan. 21, 2007.

• Statement from William Maas, D.D.S., M.P.H., Director, Division of Oral Health,     Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• Evidence-based research shows that the two most effective measures to prevent dental disease in a community are community water fluoridation and school-based sealant programs.

• In Oregon, only 20% of the population has access to water with optimum fluoride levels, compared to the national average of 65.8%. Fluoridation Map by State. 

• Portland is the largest city in the U.S. that has not yet mandated fluoridation of its water supply according to National Centers for Fluoridation Policy and Research Fluoridation status of the 50 largest cities in the U.S.

• Water fluoridation benefits people of all ages, regardless of socio-economic status.

• Every reputable scientific organization reports that water fluoridation is safe.

• The one-time cost to consumers for implementation is about $3 - $14 per person.

• The cost for onging fluoridation is about $1 - $3 per person per year (depending on the complexity of the system and the number of people sharing the cost). 

• Water fluoridation is the most effective part of a community’s comprehensive dental program.