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More than 65 years ago – on January 25,1945 – Grand Rapids, Michigan became the world’s first city to adjust the level of fluoride in its water supply.  Since that time, fluoridation has dramatically improved the oral health of tens of millions of Americans. Community water fluoridation is the single most effective public health measure to prevent tooth decay.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has proclaimed community water fluoridation as one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.  Approximately 72.4% of the U.S. population served by public water systems receive the benefit of optimally fluoridated water.

Fluoridation of community water supplies is simply the adjustment of the existing, naturally occurring fluoride levels in drinking water to an optimal fluoride level recommended by the U.S. Public Health Service (0.7 – 1.2 milligrams per liter) [the standard since 1962] for the prevention of tooth decay. (Source: ADA)

Too much fluoride? Government lowers levels . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the splotchy tooth condition, fluorosis, is unexpectedly common in kids ages 12 through 15. And it appears to have grown much more common since the 1980s…..  But there are other concerns, too…. In March, 2006, the National Academy of Sciences released a report recommending that the EPA lower its maximum standard for fluoride in drinking water to below 4 milligrams per liter. The report warned severe fluorosis could occur at 2 milligrams per liter. Also, a majority of the report’s authors said a lifetime of drinking water with fluoride at 4 milligrams per liter or higher could raise the risk of broken bones.  The department of Health and Human Services and EPA are currently assessing whether to lower the maximum amount of fluoride allowed in drinking water.  Secretary Kathleen Sebelius could make a final decision on details of the changes within a few months, the administration official said. (Source: DOCS Education)

The city of Sunnyvale fluoridates 45% of of its water to a level of 1.0 milligrams per liter (1 part per million), but other surrounding cities may not.  Talk to your dentist to determine if  you are getting the correct level of fluoride.