Fluoride is a naturally occurring compound derived from fluorine, the 13th most abundant element on Earth. It is found in many rocks and minerals in the soil and enters drinking water as water passes through these soils. Fluoride is present naturally in almost all foods and beverages including water, but levels can vary widely. Very few public water systems in Idaho add fluoride to the drinking water in a process known as fluoridation. 

Fluoride has been shown to prevent tooth decay, but too much fluoride at an early age while the teeth are forming can cause discoloration and pitting of the teeth.  This condition is known as dental fluorosis. Overexposure to fluoride over a lifetime can lead to certain types of bone disease.

Bottled water is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and must meet federal drinking water standards for regulated contaminants. Some bottled water contains natural levels of fluoride from the location that it was collected from.  Some companies add fluoride to their bottled water, which must be indicated on the label. Consumers who choose to purchase bottled water should carefully read the label or contact the bottler to understand what they are buying, for example, the source of water, the method of treatment, and the fluoride level.

Your local health department can assist you in testing your drinking water. Generally, you will need to follow some simple instructions and take a sample of water to a qualified lab for testing. Fluoride levels in drinking water can fluctuate naturally, so this sample may not represent a constant concentration. Discuss any concerns you have regarding the results with your dentist, physician or health department.

> Link to a list of Labs Certified for Drinking Water Analyses (Excel format)

> Download Private Well Owner Brochure (pdf format)

For questions regarding regulated contaminants in public water systems, contact your nearest DEQ regional office.

For oral health questions, your dentist or physician is an excellent place to start.  These medical professionals can help you decide what your fluoride needs are. Children and adults have very different fluoride needs, so be sure to discuss the needs of all family members. Your state and local health departments can also help you decide what steps, if any, you need to take.

> Link to List of Idaho Contacts (pdf format)

> Download Basic Information: Fluoride in Your Drinking Water

   (DEQ Publication, Updated February 2008: pdf 316 kb, 2 pages)