For over five decades, the American Dental Association has continuously endorsed the fluoridation of community water supplies and the use of fluoride-containing products as safe and effective measures for preventing tooth decay.

The majority of bottled waters on the market do not contain optimal levels (0.7-1.2 ppm) of fluoride. And, some types of home water treatment systems can reduce the fluoride levels in water supplies potentially decreasing the decay-preventive effects of optimally fluoridated water.

• Can the consistent use of bottled water result in individuals missing the benefits of optimally fluoridated water?
• Can home water treatment systems (e.g., water filters) affect optimally fluoridated water supplies?

Can the consistent use of bottled water result in individuals missing the benefits of optimally fluoridated water?

Yes. The majority of bottled waters on the market do not contain optimal levels (0.7-1.2 ppm) of fluoride. Read more about this in the online version of ADA's Fluoridation Facts.

Can home water treatment systems (e.g., water filters) affect optimally fluoridated water supplies?

Yes. Some types of home water treatment systems can reduce the fluoride levels in water supplies potentially decreasing the decay-preventive effects of optimally fluoridated water. Read more about this in the online version of ADA's Fluoridation Facts .

For more detailed explanations, read the ADA's Fluoridation Facts booklet. It is a 56-page comprehensive encyclopedia of fluoridation facts with over 200 scientific references. Order your copy of ADA's Fluoridation Facts (Item No. J120) from the ADA Online Catalog .

Return to Top

~ Courtesy of the American Dental Association

Return to Oral Health Care Topics