About Community Water Fluoridation
Community water fluoridation (CWF) is one of the most widely discussed topics in public health. In the United Kingdom, it has been used for more than sixty years as a way of improving dental health and reducing inequalities in oral health between different groups of people. At the same time, it is a subject that often attracts debate and, in some cases, concern.
This website has been created by, and is curated by, the British Fluoridation Society ( a voluntary, non-profit organsation of health care professionals and academics, supported by The Borrow Foundation).
The site aims to provide accessible, evidence-based information (from reputable sources in the public domain) about what fluoridation is, what the scientific research shows, and why it continues to be an important topic of discussion for communities, health professionals, and policymakers.
The website presents a limited amount of information. There is much more available. If you want more detail or have any queries not answered in the main texts or the Frequently Asked Questions, please get in touch and we will answer all legitimate enquiries: info@fluoridation.co.uk.
Useful reviews:
- The Academy of Medical Sciences synthesis of evidence to support government policy on water fluoridation in the UK https://acmedsci.ac.uk/file-download/academy-water-fluoridation-report-2025
- The American Dental Association Fluoridation Facts https://ebooks.ada.org/fluoridationfacts/3
- PHE (2014); Water fluoridation health monitoring report for England 2014 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/water-fluoridation-health-monitoring-report-for-england-2014
- PHE (2018); Water fluoridation health monitoring report for England 2018 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/water-fluoridation-health-monitoring-report-for-england-2018
- OHID (2022); Water fluoridation health monitoring report for England 2022 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/water-fluoridation-health-monitoring-report-for-england-2022
- Drinking Water Inspectorate (UK). Fluoridation of Drinking Water: regulatory overview and guidance. https://www.dwi.gov.uk/consumers/learn-more-about-your-water/fluoridation-of-drinking-water/
What is Water Fluoridation?
All naturally occurring water supplies contain fluoride, a mineral that helps protect teeth against decay. In some parts of the world, including areas of the UK, the natural levels are already close to what research suggests is optimal for dental health. In most places, however, the natural concentration is too low.
Water fluoridation involves adjusting the fluoride concentration in a public water supply to around one part per million (1 mg per litre). This is considered the level at which the maximum benefits for dental health are gained while minimising the risk of any unwanted effects, such as mild dental fluorosis (small white flecks on the teeth).
Why it matters in the UK
The UK faces significant challenges in dental health. Tooth decay remains the most common reason for hospital admissions among children aged five to nine, often requiring treatment under general anaesthetic. These admissions are costly for the NHS and distressing for families. Fluoridation is seen by many public health bodies as a way to reduce this burden.
At the same time, dental health is strongly linked to social inequality. Children and adults from deprived communities are more likely to experience decay, pain, and tooth loss. Evidence shows that fluoridation reduces these inequalities by offering extra protection where it is needed most. This population-level effect is one of the strongest arguments made in favour of continuing and expanding fluoridation schemes in the UK.
An Honest, Balanced View
It is important to be clear that water fluoridation is not a “silver bullet” for dental health. Brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste, limiting sugary foods and drinks, and visiting a dentist regularly remain essential. Fluoridation should be seen as part of a wider package of measures rather than a replacement for individual care.
For those who oppose fluoridation, the main issues are often about freedom of choice, trust in authorities, and caution about long-term health impacts. These perspectives deserve to be heard and considered respectfully. For those who support fluoridation, the central point is that the balance of evidence shows clear benefits in reducing tooth decay and narrowing health inequalities, with no credible evidence of harm at the levels used in the UK.
CWF – One of the worlds most studied public health measures
Community water fluoridation is one of the most studied public health measures in the world. In the UK, it has played a role in improving dental health for decades, especially in communities where tooth decay is a significant problem. The scientific evidence indicates that it reduces cavities in children and adults, contributes to narrowing inequalities, and does so safely when carefully monitored.
At the same time, ongoing discussion about ethics, choice, and transparency remains vital. By weighing up the evidence and engaging with these debates openly, communities can make informed decisions about whether water fluoridation is right for them. This website is here to support that process, offering information, evidence, and balanced perspectives for everyone who wants to understand more about the impact of community water fluoridation in the UK.
Questions & Contact
If you would like to arrange to talk with one of our experts on water fluoridation or if you have any questions our Frequently Asked Questions haven’t answered, please get in touch using the form below.