Skip to Main Content

Science Literacy Week 2014

“The purpose of science is not to cure us of our sense of mystery and wonder, but to constantly reinvent and reinvigorate it.” Robert M. Sapolsky

Water Fluoridation

Water fluoridation remains a controversial topic in today's society. It was started in the 1940s when dentists realized that patients from areas with natural fluoridated water had less tooth decay than those from areas with little or no naturally occurring floride in their water sources. This page is meant to give you access to some resources for information on the history of water fluoridation in Toronto and current literature on the topic. A physical display of books will also be available from September 22-26 at the Dentistry Library.

History of Water Fluoridation in Toronto

These resources will help you trace the introduction of water fluoridation in Toronto. Although approved in 1955, Toronto did not implement fluoridation until September 4, 1963 due to poublic concerns and investigations.. The following resources include reports from the Ontario Fluoridation Investigating Committee, national reports investigating fluoride adverse effects, City of Toronto reports, census of cities with fluoridated water, etc.  

Canadian Dental Association Fluoride FAQ

The Canadian Dental Association put together an FAQ on fluoride, answering some key questions on water fluoridation.

Water Brothers Documentary

The Water Brothers, Alex and Tyler Mifflin investigate both sides of water fluoridation.

Resources available at Dentistry and other UofT Libraries