Florida State Assemblyman Frederica Wilson wrote to North Miami Beach Mayor Michael Joseph, urging the city of North Miami Beach to keep fluoride in drinking water ahead of Tuesday’s city committee meeting. Click here to view the letter.
Last week, Rep. Frederica Wilson also issued assistance to maintain fluoride in drinking water in Miami-Dade County. Click here to see her statement.
Full letter text for North Miami Beach
Dear Mayor Joseph:
Thank you for reaching out to me about your concerns about the ongoing debate over the fluorination of drinking water and its impact on our children and our community as a whole. I share your concerns and I have been very vocal about the risks and potential harms that may arise from removing fluoride from our water supply.
It is truly unfortunate and incredible that this issue has been politicized after years of documented success demonstrating the positive effects of fluorination, including dramatic improvements in dental health and childhood prevention. Decades of scientific research have consistently shown that fluoride is one of the most effective and affordable public health measures. Not only does it protect oral health by strengthening teeth and preventing decay, it also significantly reduces other costs associated with poor dental health, such as dentures, surgery, hospitalizations, missed school or work days, and even emotional sacrifices of low self-esteem.
Together, we represent some of the largest minority communities. Many of them are irrelevant or underserved, lacking access to convenient and affordable health and dental care. Many individuals in these communities are not properly informed about proper oral hygiene practices and lack access to foods, toothpastes and mouthwash that support excellent oral health. The opportunity to expand education and awareness about oral health, and increased access to community dental services deserves our highest level of continued support.
We are fortunate to have the support of Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniela Levine Cava on this important issue.
The mayor recently convened a panel of dental and medical professionals who rebutted the claim that our water is unsafe due to fluorination. They strongly support the continued use of fluorination as a means of improving dental health. Our community as a whole, especially what we serve, we must stand up and hear our voices in support of fluorination.
