As a trusted well contractor serving upstate New York, we've helped countless homeowners improve their water quality. While private wells often present unique challenges, many city water consumers overlook a common concern in their municipal supply: excessive fluoride.
Locally in our service area of Albany, NY adding fluoride to the municipal water source has been a highly debated topic. Until the Spring of 2024, Albany was the only major New York State city to not have community water fluoridation. While fluoride is now being added to the municipal water supply, a group of local citizens are fighting to have the decision overturned. Latham Water, another large local water municipal utility servicing towns in the Capital Region, does not add fluoride to its water supply as there is a small, natural amount of fluoride present in the water source. While in Troy, NY fluoride is added to the municipal water supply with the city aiming for a target level of 1.0 mg/L.
Understanding fluoride levels and available treatment options is key to ensuring your family’s water is safe and healthy and contains the level of fluoride you desire or eliminates it entirely.
What Is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in soil, water, and some foods. While low levels of fluoride can benefit dental health, excessive fluoride in drinking water can pose risks. This is especially true for homeowners relying on city water systems, where fluoride is often added for dental benefits — sometimes at levels that raise concerns. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends a fluoride level of 0.7 mg/L in drinking water to prevent tooth decay and promote good oral health.
City Water vs. Well Water: How They Differ
City Water: Municipal water suppliers frequently add fluoride to reduce tooth decay in the population. However, overexposure may lead to dental fluorosis, a condition causing discoloration or pitting in tooth enamel. In rare cases, excessive fluoride exposure may also contribute to bone weakening or other health concerns. While city water is regulated, homeowners seeking to reduce fluoride levels may need targeted treatment solutions.
Well Water: Fluoride can occur naturally in well water, but levels tend to vary by region. Unlike city water, fluoride in wells isn’t deliberately added, and well owners must take responsibility for testing and treatment.
The Risks of Excessive Fluoride
While fluoride is promoted for its dental benefits, consuming water with excessive fluoride levels may lead to:
Dental fluorosis (particularly in children), a condition causing discoloration or pitting in tooth enamel.
Skeletal fluorosis, which can affect bone health over time
Potential risks for individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions
How to Test for Fluoride in Your Water
For city water consumers concerned about fluoride exposure, it's crucial to request a water quality report from your local utility. These are free and often can simply be found on the website of your town's water division. Additionally, at-home test kits or professional water testing services can provide accurate fluoride readings for added peace of mind.
Effective Fluoride Treatment Solutions
At Safewelltech, we specialize in tailored water treatment systems designed for both city and well water consumers. Our solutions for reducing fluoride include:
Reverse Osmosis Systems: Highly effective at removing fluoride and other contaminants, ensuring pure, clean drinking water.
Activated Alumina Filters: Proven to reduce fluoride levels without impacting other essential minerals.
Whole-Home Filtration Systems: For those seeking comprehensive water treatment solutions, these systems provide added protection for drinking, cooking, and bathing.
Why Choose Safewelltech?
Our team is dedicated to improving your water quality, no matter the source. Whether you rely on a private well or city water, our advanced filtration solutions can help you achieve safer, better-tasting drinking water for your home.
Contact us today to learn more about fluoride treatment solutions and how we can help you protect your family's water supply.