President Kevin Roach and Hall of Fame Chair Ray Klein holding Dr. McKay plaque


The first answer came from research done by Dr. H. V. Churchill, Chief Chemist for the Aluminum Company of America (ALCOA). Dr. Churchill had read Dr. McKay’s reports and ordered specific tests to identify trace elements. His studies revealed an unusually high percentage of fluoride in the water where mottled enamel occurred.

By 1917, Dr. McKay had become interested in periodontics and moved to New York to further his education. He practiced his new specialty in New York City. But his interest in the Colorado Brown Stain never faltered.

By 1931, Dr. McKay had spent over a quarter of a century establishing that mottled enamel of the teeth was caused by an excess of natural fluoride salts in the water supplies. He often noted that people with mottled enamel appeared to have less tooth decay than others without the affliction. But his interest was limited to identifying the cause of the stain than its resultant effect on tooth decay.

During the late 1930s, extensive studies of many thousands of children in districts where the domestic water supply contained fluorine definitely established that there was an inverse relationship between the use of fluoridated water and a low decay rate. Later studies demonstrated this conclusively. Decay rates increased in communities where water supplies were changed to nonfluoridated water.

Finally, after many years of research and hundreds of studies, it was determined that one part per million parts of water effectively reduced tooth decay up to 65%.

Dr. McKay’s early observations of mottled enamel and his determination to ascertain its cause led to the discovery of the benefits of fluoridated water supplies.

In 1940, Dr. McKay returned to Colorado Springs to continue his research, but he soon found himself practicing dentistry.

He died on 21 August 1959 at the age of 85.

During his life, he published more than 50 articles on his fluoride research, lectured extensively, and contributed to textbooks on the subject. The great scientific and humanitarian value of his services brought him numerous honorary memberships in dental and other professional organizations along with many special awards and honorary degrees.

Dr. McKay was awarded Honorary Doctorate of Science degrees from the University of Colorado, Colorado College, Case Western Reserve University, and the University of Pennsylvania. He was a dedicated individual who was determined to identify the cause of the discoloration of teeth, and he spent a lifetime using his personal funds to pursue his goal.

The fluoridation of drinking water is one of the greatest contributions the dental profession has made to society. The American Dental Association in 1962 stated: “The fluoridation of public water supplies is a safe, economical, and effective measure to prevent dental caries. It has received the unqualified approval of every major health organization in the United States and in many other countries.”

All of these things occurred because of one man’s interest, desire, and determination. The results reaffirm the old adage that one person can make a difference!

For his many contributions to improving the dental health care of all mankind, the Pierre Fauchard Academy has elected Dr. Frederick S. McKay to the PFA International Hall of Fame of Dentistry.