Ohio Dentists’ Perspectives on Water Fluoridation and Fluoride Practices
Advisor(s)
DiPietro Mager, Natalie
Kier, Karen
Confirmation
1
Document Type
Poster
Location
ONU McIntosh Center; Activities Room
Start Date
24-4-2026 12:00 PM
End Date
24-4-2026 12:50 PM
Abstract
Community water fluoridation has long been recognized as an effective public health measure for reducing dental caries, yet it remains a subject of ongoing public debate and concern. In order to better understand how these discussions are reflected in clinical settings, this study examines Ohio dentists’ perspectives on fluoridation, the concerns they encounter from patients, and their approaches to fluoride-related care. Using a cross-sectional design, a 23-item survey was distributed to licensed dentists across Ohio, assessing their views on fluoridation, perceived differences in patient oral health, awareness of professional guidelines, and clinical practices. Responses collected through Qualtrics provide insight into both professional consensus and variation in practice. Preliminary findings indicate strong agreement among dentists regarding the importance of fluoridation, with most respondents identifying lack of fluoridated water as a major contributor to tooth decay and observing noticeable differences in patient outcomes. At the same time, many report an increase in patient concerns about fluoride, highlighting a growing need for effective communication. While most dentists are familiar with professional guidelines, their approaches to recommending fluoride supplements vary. Together, these findings point to the critical role dentists play in shaping public understanding and promoting evidence-based oral health practices across Ohio.
Recommended Citation
Falke, Lydia N., "Ohio Dentists’ Perspectives on Water Fluoridation and Fluoride Practices" (2026). ONU Student Research Colloquium. 79.
https://digitalcommons.onu.edu/student_research_colloquium/2026/Posters/79
Open Access
Available to all.
Ohio Dentists’ Perspectives on Water Fluoridation and Fluoride Practices
ONU McIntosh Center; Activities Room
Community water fluoridation has long been recognized as an effective public health measure for reducing dental caries, yet it remains a subject of ongoing public debate and concern. In order to better understand how these discussions are reflected in clinical settings, this study examines Ohio dentists’ perspectives on fluoridation, the concerns they encounter from patients, and their approaches to fluoride-related care. Using a cross-sectional design, a 23-item survey was distributed to licensed dentists across Ohio, assessing their views on fluoridation, perceived differences in patient oral health, awareness of professional guidelines, and clinical practices. Responses collected through Qualtrics provide insight into both professional consensus and variation in practice. Preliminary findings indicate strong agreement among dentists regarding the importance of fluoridation, with most respondents identifying lack of fluoridated water as a major contributor to tooth decay and observing noticeable differences in patient outcomes. At the same time, many report an increase in patient concerns about fluoride, highlighting a growing need for effective communication. While most dentists are familiar with professional guidelines, their approaches to recommending fluoride supplements vary. Together, these findings point to the critical role dentists play in shaping public understanding and promoting evidence-based oral health practices across Ohio.