The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) announced

Fluoridation is the adjustment of fluoride in drinking water to a level that is effective for preventing tooth decay. The award recognizes those communities that achieved excellence in community water fluoridation by maintaining a consistent level of fluoride in drinking water throughout 2022.

For 2022, a total of 1,209 public water systems in 27 states received these awards, including only 30 in Wisconsin.

“Water fluoridation is one of the best investments that a community can make in maintaining the oral health of its citizens. It is equally as effective in preventing cavities in children and adults,” stated Casey Hannan, MPH, Director, CDC Division of Oral Health. “Fluoridation is also highly cost effective. Studies continue to show that for every $1 a community invests in water fluoridation, $20 are saved in dental treatment costs.”

Community water fluoridation has been recognized by CDC as one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th Century. CDC recommends water fluoridation as one of the most practical, cost-effective, equitable, and safe measures a community can take to prevent tooth decay and improve oral health. Water fluoridation has helped improve the quality of life through reduced pain and suffering related to tooth decay, reduced time lost from school and work, and less money spent to restore, remove, or replace decayed teeth.

“I’m honored to present this award to the cities of Neillsville and Greenwood. Thank you for your commitment in supporting oral health in our communities,” stated Brittany Mews, Health Officer/Director, Clark County Health Department. To learn about the Clark County Seal-A-Smile and Community Oral Health services the health department offers, visit the Clark County Health Department’s website at www.clarkcountywi.gov/ph-seal-a-smile or call 715-743-5105.