The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 60% of the U.S. population has access to fluoridated water where they live and work. Fluoride has been added to public drinking water since 1945 and hailed by the CDC as one of the greatest accomplishments of the 20th century.

While nearly all water contains some amount of fluoride, drinking water is treated with fluoride to reach the optimal levels necessary for good dental health. Consider the following fluoridated water list of benefits before making changes at your business:

1. Fluoride promotes remineralization of enamel, preventing cavities from continuing to form.

2. Fluoridated water and fluoride reduces the ability of oral bacteria to produce acid.

3. Reduced dental cost for individuals as a result of better dental health.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Review fluoridated water information before implementing any changes at your business

To better enable your business' ability to make informed decisions and answer employee or consumer questions about fluoridated water, seek out information online. Having an accurate knowledge base concerning the facts and misconceptions about fluoridated water will prove beneficial. Many organizations offer booklets and guides for purchase so your business can have such documentation on hand.

I recommend: Enhance your knowledge and decision-making abilities as it pertains to fluoridated water by purchasing the Fluoridation Facts Booklet from the American Dental Association. You may also be interested in purchasing the Water Fluoridation Principles and Practices manual from the American Water Works Association as it provides individuals with information and advice on the design, operation, and maintenance of water fluoridation systems.

Purchase fluoridated water testing kits to identify the fluoride levels in your business' water

While fluoridated water is beneficial to dental health, high levels of fluoridated water can be harmful. Desired fluoride levels are 1 part fluoride per million parts water or 1 milligram fluoride per liter of water. The EPA warms against levels above 2mg/L as it may lead to dental fluorosis. To make sure your business' water supply has optimal fluoride levels, buy a fluoride water testing kit online.

I recommend: Check out Palintest, a leading manufacturer of water testing and environmental products for water quality and drinking water. Shop 3M may also work for your business as the website offers fluoride water testing kits as well.

Find the fluoridated water provider that fits your business specifications and schedule online

Find fluoridated water distributors online and sign your office up for delivery. Many bottled water distributors allow consumers to choose the type of water they would like to be delivered to the workplace, including fluoridated water.

I recommend: Take a look at the delivery options available at Arrowhead Brand Mountain Spring Water, which allows your business to manage your office deliveries online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Poland Spring Brand Natural Spring Water also offers home or office delivery of bottled fluoridated spring water.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Although fluoridated water is beneficial to both children and adults, seek guidance from the CDC website concerning children under 8 years of age and infants who consume formula reconstituted with fluoridated water. Because teeth are still developing, there may be an increased risk of enamel fluorosis.