Fluoride in Drinking Water: Benefits, Risks, and Removal
The science on water fluoridation and options if you want to remove it.
The fluoride debate
Most US water systems add fluoride at 0.7 mg/L to prevent tooth decay. The CDC calls water fluoridation one of the top public health achievements of the 20th century. However, some people prefer to remove fluoride due to concerns about dental fluorosis, thyroid effects at higher doses, or personal preference.
What science says
At the standard 0.7 mg/L level, the scientific consensus supports fluoride's dental benefits with minimal risk. Above 2 mg/L, dental fluorosis risk increases. Above 4 mg/L (the EPA MCL), skeletal fluorosis becomes a concern. Most municipal water is well within safe ranges.
Removal options
Standard carbon filters (Brita, fridge filters) do NOT remove fluoride. Reverse osmosis removes 85-92% of fluoride. Activated alumina filters are specifically designed for fluoride removal. Bone char carbon is another option. If you want to remove fluoride, you need one of these specific technologies.