Between 1901 and 1909, Dr. Frederick McKay and Dr. Green Vardiman Black, both dentists, identified what would become one of the most significant discoveries of dental research — water fluoridation to decrease dental cavities (caries and decay). Dentists and dental researchers often questioned and debated the idea that low levels of fluoride in tap water could benefit public health. However, it wasn’t until the 1940s under President Harry Truman that legislation began to take form in the development of a dental research institution. This organization conducted programs, research and studies to prove the validity of McKay’s and Black’s claim.

In the 1940s several proposals put these key dental initiatives in motion. In January 1945, a Senate bill included a provision to establish an institute to conduct research on the prevention and treatment of dental ailments and provide for the professional development of fellowships and grants. Further, two major studies on low-level water fluoridation in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and New York State provided an impetus for continued dental research.

President Truman signed Public Law (P.L.) 755, The National Dental Research Act, into law on June 24, 1948. The dental research section of the National Institutes of Health was named the National Institute of Dental Research (NIDR). Many believe that one of the greatest research programs to come out of the NIDR, which has since been renamed the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, was that which led to the fluoridation of water in the U.S.

The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) supports the Center for Disease Control’s recommendation for the use of fluoride and community water fluoridation. AGD adopted the following positions on water fluoridation and dental health:

• When used appropriately, fluoride is safe and effective in preventing and controlling dental caries. Regular use throughout life will help protect teeth against decay. All water supplies, including bottled water, should have appropriate fluoride levels. All fluoridated items, including toothpaste, should be used as recommended by your dentist.
• AGD supports the use of public funds to assist local and state governments in seeing that their public water supplies are adequately fluoridated.

This year, as we celebrate U.S. presidents, AGD gives special recognition to President Truman for his contributions to improving the oral health of the public.