What is the recommended concentration of fluoride for community water fluoridation?

The recommended concentration of fluoride for community water fluoridation is 0.7 parts per million (ppm). This concentration is considered optimal for maximizing dental health benefits while minimizing the risk of dental fluorosis.

Fluoride at this level has been shown to effectively reduce the incidence of tooth decay in the population, as it helps to strengthen tooth enamel and make it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria that cause cavities. The adjustment to 0.7 ppm represents a balance that health authorities, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Dental Association (ADA), have endorsed based on extensive research and community health studies.

Using a concentration higher than this recommended level could increase the risk of adverse effects such as dental fluorosis, particularly in young children whose teeth are still developing. Therefore, maintaining the fluoride concentration at 0.7 ppm serves to optimize oral health benefits while minimizing potential risks.