Illinois Water Fluoride: Updated Statistics

Water fluoridation is a crucial public health measure that helps prevent tooth decay and promote oral health. In Illinois, the state has consistently maintained high levels of fluoridation coverage, ensuring that a significant portion of its population has access to optimally fluoridated water. This article explores the current state of water fluoridation in Illinois, highlighting key statistics and the impact of this practice on public health.

Illinois ranks among the top states in the nation when it comes to providing fluoridated water to its residents. The state’s commitment to this public health measure has resulted in substantial benefits for its population, including reduced dental treatment costs and improved oral health outcomes.

• In 2018, 98.2% of Illinois’s population served by public water systems received fluoridated water, ranking it #4 among the states.
• Providing optimally fluoridated water to US communities for one year saves $6.5 billion in dental treatment costs and offers an average return of $20 for every $1 spent.
• Fluoridation is mandatory in Illinois since 1967, which has contributed to the state’s high fluoridation rates.

Consistent Access to Fluoridated Water

Illinois has maintained a consistently high percentage of its population with access to fluoridated water over the years.

• The percentage of the population with access to fluoridated water in Illinois was 98.5% in 2016 and 2014, and 98.9% in 2006.
• Nationally, 73.0% of the U.S. population on community water systems received fluoridated water in 2018, putting Illinois significantly above the national average.

Community Water Systems and Fluoridation

Illinois has a large number of water supplies, with many systems adjusting fluoride levels to provide optimal health benefits to their communities.

• Of the 1,827 water supplies in Illinois, 889 systems adjust fluoride levels to provide optimal health benefits to their communities.

Economic Benefits of Fluoridation

Water fluoridation not only improves oral health but also offers significant economic benefits by reducing dental treatment costs.

• Studies have shown that for every dollar invested in fluoridation, as much as $38 is saved in dental treatment costs.

Illinois’s strong commitment to water fluoridation has positioned the state as a leader in this essential public health measure. By maintaining high levels of fluoridation coverage and investing in the oral health of its residents, Illinois continues to demonstrate the importance and effectiveness of water fluoridation in promoting public health and reducing healthcare costs.