Inorganic Medium Risk
Fluoride
Bone disease, tooth discoloration in children
Sources: Natural deposits, Water additive, Fertilizer runoff
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (4 mg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
4 mg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 mg/L
Violating Systems
5 nationwide
Affected Population
2.5M estimated
Avg Detected Level
2.304 mg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Fluoride in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause bone disease, tooth discoloration in children. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 4 mg/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Bone disease, tooth discoloration in children
Common Sources
1
Natural deposits 2
Water additive 3
Fertilizer runoff 4
Industrial discharge National Overview
Total Tests
62
Violations Found
5
Violation Rate
8.1%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
69
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities
C NC0132011 Charlotte, NC
500,000 served
73
Suburban Cook County Water
B IL0310002 Chicago, IL
1,500,000 served
89
Karegnondi Water Authority (Flint area)
B MI2510002 Flint, MI
60,000 served
89
City of Henderson Water
B NV0032036 Henderson, NV
320,189 served
61
Waukesha Water Utility
C WI2410002 Milwaukee, WI
72,000 served
Treatment Methods
Activated alumina
Reverse osmosis
Bone char
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Fluoride.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fluoride and why is it in drinking water?
Fluoride is a inorganic contaminant. Common sources include: Natural deposits, Water additive, Fertilizer runoff, Industrial discharge.
What are the health effects of Fluoride in drinking water?
Bone disease, tooth discoloration in children
What is the EPA limit for Fluoride?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Fluoride is 4 mg/L.
How can I remove Fluoride from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Fluoride include: Activated alumina, Reverse osmosis, Bone char.
How do I test my water for Fluoride?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Fluoride levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.