For more than 60 years, community water fluoridation has been a major factor in the decline of tooth decay in Vermont. Optimally fluoridated water is the single most cost-effective strategy that a community can use to improve the oral health of its residents. Fluoridation benefits everyone – it has been shown to save money for families and the health care system. Fluoridation is considered one of the 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ recommended level for fluoride is 0.70 parts per million (ppm) for all public water systems that fluoridate the water. Fluoride already exists naturally in all groundwater, lakes, rivers and the ocean at various levels. Water fluoridation is simply adjusting the existing level of fluoride to the recommended level of 0.70 parts per million (ppm) to reduce tooth decay.

Read our Community Water Fluoridation Fact Sheet

Fluoride in private wells or spring water

The only way to know the existing level of fluoride in a well or spring is to test the water.

The Vermont Department of Health recommends testing your private well or spring to know how much fluoride is in your water before giving your child a fluoride supplement or mixing infant formula with well or spring water.

Where is well water testing available?

Testing is available through the Vermont Department of Health Laboratory.
We offer private well water testing for families with children ages 4 years or younger at no charge through the Well Water Testing Program. Please contact your child's doctor or dentist to get a form for a free well water test kit. 

Information for health care providers

Before prescribing fluoride supplements for children, you need to know the existing level of fluoride in their drinking water. Vermont's Guide to Fluoride Levels in Public Water Systems and the Fluoride in Well Water Testing Program lists the levels of fluoride in all public water systems, fluoridated or not. Distribute the Fluoride in Well Water Test Order Form to families who have a private water source and a child under age four. 
 

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a liquid that can be brushed on teeth to stop tooth decay. It is applied to teeth without using needles or a drill, so it can be especially helpful for Vermonters who have difficulty accessing dental health care in a traditional setting (e.g., older Vermonters, young children). Please see our Fact Sheet for more information about SDF.

Fluoridation Learning Online (FLO)

Fluoridation Learning Online (FLO) is a free resource designed to build the capability of state fluoridation programs, and to help increase knowledge and refine skills to implement and maintain community water fluoridation.  Vermont offers four Training Contact Hours (TCH) for taking FLO.

More information on fluoridation
Topics:
Fluoride | Oral Health
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