Calgary begins adding fluoride to drinking water for first time in almost 15 years

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This article was published 30/06/2025 (445 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

CALGARY – Fluoride is back in Calgary’s drinking water.

The city, in a news release, says it has begun adding the chemical into the water at the direction of councillors.

Council’s decision follows a 2021 plebiscite in which about two-thirds of those who voted said they wanted fluoride put back in the water.

The city says fluoride is safe at low levels and is an effective way to prevent cavities and keep teeth strong.

Fluoride has been a contentious health issue with municipalities, and in Calgary, the water was fluoridated for 20 years until council directed it to be halted in 2011.

Edmonton, Red Deer and other Alberta municipalities already add fluoride to drinking water.

The change comes at a price, as the city says it will cost $28 million to upgrade its two water treatment plants for the fluoride.

Fluoride will cost $1 million more per year for operating and maintenance, and will be paid for through water rates.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 30, 2025.