The Massachusetts Medical Society is a professional association of over 25,000 physicians, residents, and medical students across all clinical disciplines, organizations, and practice settings. The Medical Society is committed to advocating on behalf of patients, to give them a better health care system, and on behalf of physicians, to help them provide the best care possible.
The MMS would like to be recorded in opposition to S.460, An Act Instituting a Ban on Fluoride Supplementation of Public Water Supplies and H.827, An Act Relative To Fluoridation.
MMS recognizes oral health is an integral part of health and wellness. The ability to access oral health care is out of reach for many and is associated with gender, age, education level, income, race and ethnicity, access to medical insurance, and geographic location. Addressing these determinants is key in reducing health disparities and improving overall health.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention named Community Water Fluoridation one of the top 10 greatest public health achievements of the 20th century since tooth decay contributes to a decrease in quality of life and increased costs of restorative dental care. Oral health affects all aspects of our lives including diet, sleep, mental health, social engagement, school, and work. Disparities in oral health remain for population subgroups such as the poor, elderly, and many members of racial and ethnic minority groups.
Economic evaluations reaffirm the cost benefits of community water fluoridation. Studies continue to show that widespread community water fluoridation prevents cavities and saves money, both for families and the health care system. This study supports the finding that community water fluoridation remains one of the most cost-effective methods of delivering fluoride to all community members regardless of age, educational attainment, or income level.
For these reasons the MMS respectfully requests that the committee report out unfavorably regarding S.460, An Act Instituting a Ban on Fluoride Supplementation Of Public Water Supplies and H.827, An Act Relative To Fluoridation.
View a PDF version of this testimony here.
