Fluoride to be reintroduced in Calgary water starting next month
After a long-awaited decision, fluoride will be reintroduced into Calgary’s drinking water starting June 30, following the approval from Calgarians in the October 2021 municipal election. This decision comes about 3½ years after the public voted in favor of fluoridation.
The city announced that the fluoridation process will enhance the natural fluoride levels in the Bow and Elbow Rivers, bringing it to the recommended level of 0.7 milligrams per liter as per Health Canada’s guidelines for community water fluoridation. Over 90 national and international governments and health organizations support the fluoridation of drinking water, including Health Canada.
Fluoride plays a crucial role in promoting oral health by replenishing essential minerals like calcium and phosphate on the surface of teeth, strengthening enamel and making it more resistant to acid, bacteria, and tooth decay. Research conducted by the University of Calgary’s Cumming School of Medicine in 2021 revealed that Grade 2 students in Calgary had a higher prevalence of cavities compared to those in Edmonton, where water has been fluoridated since 1967.
The reintroduction of fluoride benefits the entire community, particularly those who are most vulnerable and lack access to dental care. It is important to note that fluoride has no impact on the taste, smell, or appearance of drinking water.
The decision to reintroduce fluoride into Calgary’s water supply was a result of the 2021 civic election, which included a referendum on fluoridation. With 62% of voters expressing support for fluoride, the newly elected council approved the decision the following month. Calgary originally began fluoridating its water in 1991 but discontinued the process in 2011 due to aging infrastructure.
The upgrades required for fluoride reintroduction, including installing new equipment at the Glenmore and Bearspaw water treatment plants, came with a total cost of $28.1 million and annual costs of $1 million. Despite this investment, the city reassured residents that the cost equates to less than 10 cents per person per month and is already covered through water rates approved by the council.
According to Alberta Health Services, every $1 spent on community water fluoridation can save up to $93 per person in dental treatment costs. AHS strongly supports water fluoridation as a foundational public health measure to prevent tooth decay and improve oral health.
With the reintroduction of fluoride, Calgary now joins other Alberta municipalities like Edmonton, Red Deer, and Lethbridge that have implemented water fluoridation. The city remains committed to delivering safe and reliable drinking water to its citizens while meeting or exceeding all drinking water regulations.
