Recommended Fluoridation Level Reduced for Drinking Water

Recommended Fluoridation Level Reduced for Drinking Water

Based on updated data from the National Academies of Science (NAS) about the prevalence of dental fluorosis and tooth decay, as well as an increase in the availability of fluoride sources, the federal government has revised the recommended level of fluoride in drinking water to 0.7 milligrams per liter. The US Department of Health and Human Services and US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) agreed to reset the mark for the first time since 1962, when the range for fluoride in drinking water was established at 0.7 to 1.2 milligrams per liter.

Water fluoridation was introduced in the 1940s, and since then Americans have gained access to more sources of fluoride though dental products such as toothpaste and mouthrinses. Recent NAS research indicates some children may be at risk of overexposure to fluoride, which could lead to fluorosis (i.e., streaking or spotting of teeth). The new recommended level will guard against the effects of excessive fluoride while continuing to assure the benefits of tooth decay prevention.

The American Dental Association (ADA) applauds the agencies’ decision to recalibrate the fluoride-to-water ratio. “This is a superb example of a government agency fulfilling its mission to protect and enhance the health of the American people,” says ADA President Raymond F. Gist, DDS.

Though the recommended level has been set at the lower optimal limit, Gist observes the health benefits of fluoridation will remain. “The only real, known health risk is the dramatic increased levels of disease that are likely to afflict people who lack access to optimally fluoridated water,” he says. Fluoridated water is one of the most potent weapons in disease prevention, according to Gist, who adds, “Dentistry has succeeded in preventing disease better than any other area of health care.”

The EPA reports the enforceable standard for drinking water is currently capped at 4 milligrams per liter—this is the highest amount of fluoridation allowed in public water systems and is more than five times higher than the new recommendations. Community water systems that exceed this limit must inform individuals served by the system the level has been exceeded. The EPA indicates it may yet make a further determination based on the NAS findings about whether to also lower the maximum allowable amount of fluoride in drinking water.