The Minnesota Department of Health announced the city of Albert Lea has been awarded a Water Fluoridation Quality Award from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, according to a news release.

Water fluoridation is the adjustment of fluoride in the drinking water supply to a level which safely and effectively reduces tooth decay and promotes good oral health. The award recognizes those communities that maintained a consistent level of optimally fluoridated water throughout 2012.

“We can be proud that in Minnesota, communities are employing this effective public health measure,” said Minnesota Oral Health Director MerryJo Thoele. “Studies show that fluoridation prevents tooth decay in all age groups, not just in children. So it is very important that communities continue to maintain their fluoridation levels.”

Community water fluoridation has been recognized by CDC as one of the 10 great public health achievements of the 20th Century. The CDC recommends water fluoridation as a safe, effective and inexpensive method of preventing tooth decay. In fact, every $1 invested in fluoridation saves approximately $38 in costs for dental treatment, the news release states.

“Water operators in the city of Albert Lea continue to do a fantastic job of keeping fluoride levels right where they need to be for optimum benefits,” said Steven Jahnke, director of Public Works.

City Manager Chad Adams said, “We are pleased to receive this award as recognition of a great public health measure for our community. I commend our city staff for their hard work in implementing and obtaining such an important achievement for Albert Lea.”