Why Community Water Fluoridation Matters for Kansas  

As lawmakers consider SB 333, a bill that would prohibit community water fluoridation across Kansas, it’s important to understand what is at stake for our families and communities. 

At Pathways to Oral Health, our mission is to improve access to dental care — especially for Kansans who face barriers to care such as disabilities, low income, or living in rural areas. Community water fluoridation is one of the most effective and equitable tools we have to support that goal. 

What is Community Water Fluoridation? 

Community water fluoridation is the adjustment of fluoride in public drinking water to levels proven to prevent tooth decay. It has been used safely in the United States for more than 80 years and is recognized as one of the most successful public health measures in history. 

Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, reduces cavities, and benefits people of all ages, even those who don’t regularly see a dentist. 

Why Fluoridation Matters in Kansas 

Dental care is already out of reach for too many Kansans. 

• Many communities lack dental providers, especially those who accept Medicaid 

• Dental care is often delayed because of cost, transportation, or workforce shortages 

• Tooth decay remains one of the most common chronic diseases in both children and adults 

Community water fluoridation helps level the playing field. It reaches everyone who drinks tap water — regardless of income, insurance status, or where they live.  

For families who struggle to afford regular dental visits, fluoride in drinking water can mean fewer cavities, less pain, and fewer missed days of school or work. 

Fluoridation Saves Money  

Decades of research show that community water fluoridation at recommended levels is safe and effective at reducing tooth decay. Leading medical, dental, and public health organizations continue to support it as a proven way to protect oral health. 

Communities that discontinue fluoridation often see increases in tooth decay, particularly among children and lower-income residents. That means more fillings, more dental emergencies, and higher healthcare costs for families and the state. 

Oral Health Is Overall Health 

Oral health is essential to overall health. Untreated dental disease can lead to: 

• Pain and infection 

• Difficulty eating and speaking 

• Missed school and work 

• Increased emergency room visits 

For individuals with disabilities, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions, poor oral health can make other medical issues worse. 

Moving Forward, Not Backward?  

Kansas is working to expand dental coverage and strengthen its Medicaid dental provider network. Proven preventive strategies like water fluoridation work hand-in-hand with those efforts. 

Removing fluoride from community water systems would move us backward and widen oral health disparities. Pathways to Oral Health remains committed to supporting policies that protect and improve oral health for all Kansans, because strong prevention leads to healthier communities and more reasons to smile. If you want to help us protect fluoride in Kansas, join the Statewide Water Action Team (SWAT)! Sign up here!