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.