Fluoride Information

Fluoride is a compound that contains an ionic form of the element fluorine. Fluoride occurs naturally in many water sources and is added in the treatment process by many public water systems.

Fluoride levels between 0.5 and 0.9 milligrams per liter (mg/L) help reduce tooth decay. Amounts above 4.0 mg/L may cause bone disease. Levels greater than 2 mg/L and less than 4 mg/L can cause discoloration of teeth.

Does the fluoride regulation apply to my water system?

Yes. Community public water systems serving more than 500 people are required by state law to adjust fluoride levels between 0.5 and 0.9 milligrams per liter (mg/L).

Frequency of Sampling

Sampling must be conducted yearly for systems using surface water, or every three years for systems using ground water.

If your system is a community public water system serving more than 500 people, monthly samples are required.

Maximum Contaminant Level

Maximum Contaminant Level = 4.0 mg/L

Secondary (recommended) standard = 2.0 mg/L.

If your water system serves fewer than 500 people and tests show levels below 2.0 mg/L, no action is required.

Actions Your Water System Should Take

If tests indicate fluoride levels above 4.0 mg/L, your water system is in violation of the EPA Maximum Contaminant Level and must:

  • Contact the Drinking Water Program to assist in preparing the required public notification for customers.
  • Work with the Drinking Water Program and the water system manager to plan changes in water supply or treatment to reduce fluoride levels.
  • Seek assistance from resource agencies to identify financial resources if system changes are required.
  • Continue quarterly testing as required or recommended by the state agency while solutions are implemented.
  • Notify the public quarterly as required.

Solutions for very small water systems often involve identifying a new water source or blending existing sources to reduce fluoride levels. Treatment removal methods are often cost-prohibitive for very small systems.

Your local dentist or state dental association can provide additional information about the benefits of appropriate fluoride levels in drinking water.

Other Important Considerations

There is currently no plan to remove existing pipe, but systems may need to provide corrosion control if asbestos cement pipe is present.

Systems should also plan for procedures and materials required to repair asbestos cement pipe if needed in the future.

The greatest risk is to maintenance workers handling the pipe. Inhalation of asbestos fibers during cutting or repair can be hazardous.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has published rules regarding occupational exposure to asbestos. Workers should contact their state Department of Labor for more information.

Additional Resources