Wisconsin Oral Health Program

Wisconsin Public Water Supply Fluoridation Census 2007

The Wisconsin Public Water Supply Fluoridation Census provides information on the fluoride status of public water systems in Wisconsin. This census is conducted by the Division of Public Health, Department of Health and Family Services, in collaboration with the Department of Natural Resources. Information is obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Water Fluoridation Reporting System and the Department of Natural Resource’s community water system pumpage reports. The following facts summarize the benefits of fluoridation:

• Fluoridation is the least expensive and most effective way to reduce tooth decay.

• Fluoridation benefits children and adults when they drink fluoridated water and consume foods and beverages prepared with it.

• Fluoridation is safe.

• Fluoridation provides benefits that continue for a lifetime.

• Fluoridation reduces the need for dental treatment and its costs.

Systems listed under "Adjusted for Optimal Fluoride Content" adjust the amount of fluoride in the water for optimal oral health benefits. The optimal level for fluoridated systems in Wisconsin is 1.1 parts per million of fluoride. Community water fluoridation is the most efficient way to prevent tooth decay. Systems listed under "Natural Fluoride Content of 0.7 PPM and Above" have at least 0.7 parts per million of natural fluoride in the water. Children drinking water from these systems should not take dietary fluoride supplements.

Systems listed under "Deficient in Fluoride Content and Not Adjusting" do not have adequate fluoride in the water for the prevention of tooth decay. Children drinking water from these systems may need to take dietary fluoride supplements. More information regarding dietary fluoride supplements can be found on the Dental Health Fact Sheet on Dietary Fluoride Supplements (PDF, 11 KB) available from the Division of Public Health.

Approximately 90% of the population of Wisconsin on public water supplies receive the benefits of appropriate levels of fluoride. Since many people receive their water from individual wells, approximately 63% of the total population in Wisconsin receive the benefits of appropriate levels of fluoride. There are 279 systems in Wisconsin that adjust the level of fluoride (fluoridated) for optimal benefits.

Wisconsin Public Water Supplies:

Wisconsin Public Water Supply Fluoridation Census - 2007 (PDF, 33 KB)

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