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Fluoride levels in public water supplies have drawn continued interest in Delaware due to their potential role in improving dental health. This article provides a statistical overview of the most recent trends, comparisons, and health impacts tied to water fluoridation across Delaware and nearby regions.
In recent years, Delaware has reported consistently high fluoridation coverage, ranking above national averages. Yet significant variation exists in neighboring states, creating an opportunity to explore how these differences may influence dental health outcomes and overall coverage rates.
These figures highlight the state’s focus on maintaining optimal fluoride levels to reduce dental caries without exceeding safety thresholds. Below are more detailed data sets illustrating where Delaware stands relative to surrounding areas and how these statistics have evolved over time.
Fluoride concentration in Delaware’s community water systems is closely monitored to support dental health and avoid excessive exposure.
Although these values fluctuate slightly by region, they remain below the state maximum and within nationally recognized optimal ranges.
Year / Data Source | Reported Fluoride (ppm) | MCL (ppm) |
---|---|---|
2005–2013 (Various Municipal Reports) | 0.7–1.2 | 2.0 |
2014–2019 (Suez Water Delaware) | 0.8–0.9 | 2.0 |
2023 (Wilmington Annual Report) | 0.43–1.25 | 2.0 |
Despite varying naturally occurring levels, the consistent enforcement of supplementation helps Delaware maintain a steady supply of fluoridated water that aligns with recommended public health guidelines.
Geography and state policies lead to significant variation in fluoride coverage across the Mid-Atlantic.
These sharp disparities showcase how policy decisions and local mandates can affect oral health outcomes in each state.
State | % CWS Population Fluoridated | Key Policy Notes |
---|---|---|
Delaware | 76% | Mandatory state fluoridation since 1998 |
Pennsylvania | 52% | 16 counties fully unfluoridated |
New Jersey | 16% | Local opt-outs; legislative stagnation |
Maryland | 98% | Universal fluoridation in major cities |
Washington, DC | 100% | Fully fluoridated since 1952 |
In the surrounding region, Maryland and Washington, DC have achieved near-universal coverage, while nearby states such as New Jersey remain far behind.
Fluoridation remains central in discussions on improving dental health, particularly for children.
Although recent discussions mention potential neurodevelopmental risks above 1.5 ppm, Delaware’s public water supplies remain well under this threshold.
Region | Average Childhood Caries Reduction | Fluoride Level (Approx.) |
---|---|---|
Delaware | 25–30% | 0.8–1.25 ppm |
New Jersey | Lower overall reduction | 0.2–0.3 ppm (many communities) |
Maryland | 30–40% | Near universal coverage |
This data underscores the correlation between targeted fluoride levels and decreased dental caries, alongside ongoing safety considerations.
Over the past two decades, Delaware has progressively raised its fluoridation coverage while aligning with evolving recommendations.
Despite infrastructural hurdles in certain locales, the state has maintained steady increases in fluoridation percentages over the years.
Year | Estimated Coverage (%) | Notes |
---|---|---|
2000 | ~72 | Early statewide mandate in effect |
2010 | ~80 | Increasing compliance across counties |
2015 | ~83 | Adoption of 0.7 ppm federal guideline |
2018 | ~85.9 | Overall coverage surpasses national average |
2020–2023 | ~76–90 | Fluctuation tied to smaller system upgrades |
These increases reflect continuing initiatives to ensure the widest possible distribution of optimally fluoridated water in the state.
The data reveal Delaware’s high fluoridation coverage and generally positive oral health outcomes when compared to neighboring states. Maintaining optimal levels has helped the state significantly reduce dental caries, while strong monitoring practices continue to safeguard against potential risks.
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