Fluoride in Drinking Water

Reference information plus historical EPA compliance records associated with fluoride.

EPA Limit (MCL)

4000 ppb

EPA Goal (MCLG)

4000 ppb

Category

Inorganic

Regulatory values are a concise reference, not legal or medical advice. Confirm the current standard and rule-specific details on EPA.gov.

Health Effects

Bone disease (pain, tenderness), dental fluorosis in children

Common Sources

Natural deposits, water additive for dental health

Treatment Considerations for Fluoride

Commonly cited treatment approaches include: Reverse osmosis, activated alumina. Choose treatment only after a certified water test identifies the substance and concentration; verify NSF/ANSI certification and consult a qualified local professional when needed.

13,800

Historical Violation Records

6,780

Systems With Records

Historical Fluoride Records by State

StateRecordsSystems
Pennsylvania2,0831,037
Texas1,842325
Washington1,8361,132
North Carolina889577
Alaska834287
Arizona655340
Virginia646181
Ohio570396
Utah449234
Iowa331225
California32568
New Mexico30875
Connecticut296157
Oregon281233
Montana276146
Colorado231141
New Jersey228170
Illinois186117
West Virginia18379
Arkansas13431

Systems With the Most Fluoride Violation Records

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fluoride and why can it appear in drinking-water records?

Fluoride can be associated with drinking water through: Natural deposits, water additive for dental health.

What reference value does this page show?

The summarized EPA Maximum Contaminant Level is 4000 ppb. Some substances use action levels or rule-specific thresholds instead, so verify the current EPA standard.

Does a historical violation record mean it is in my tap today?

No. A compliance record may be historical or resolved. Use the latest Consumer Confidence Report or a certified test for current local conditions.