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Illinois has maintained one of the nation’s longest-running mandatory water fluoridation programs, contributing to high statewide coverage and consistent oral health benefits. This article presents recent trends, coverage rates, cost savings, and comparative data to offer a clear statistical overview of Illinois’ water fluoridation landscape.
For decades, the Illinois Department of Public Health has closely monitored local community water systems to ensure that fluoride levels align with both historical legislation and updated federal guidelines. Below is an in-depth look at the key statistics, covering everything from percentage coverage and cost-saving calculations to regional comparisons with neighboring states.
Below are a few quick data points illustrating Illinois’ water fluoridation status.
These figures underscore the high coverage and financial impact of Illinois’ fluoridation program. The following sections break down the data in more detail, covering coverage trends, health outcomes, and regional comparisons.
Accurate documentation of coverage levels highlights the consistency of Illinois’ fluoridation program.
Regular monitoring ensures that most community water systems meet state and federal guidelines. This high coverage rate is the backbone of Illinois’ broader oral health success metrics.
Year Range | % Fluoridation Coverage in Illinois | National Average |
---|---|---|
2005–2010 | 98.5% | ~65.0% |
2015–2018 | 98.2% | ~72.7% |
2020–2025 | 98.2–98.5% | 72.7% |
Illinois enforces rigorous checks to keep fluoride levels at optimal concentrations.
By ensuring close adherence to state-mandated guidelines, Illinois maintains consistent fluoride distribution and mitigates any risk of overexposure.
Parameter | Figure |
---|---|
Community Water Systems Monitored | 1,842 |
Compliance Rate | 90% |
Adopted Target Range | 0.7 ppm |
Reported Dental Fluorosis Cases from CWS | 0 |
High coverage translates into measurable dental health improvements and notable economic benefits.
These figures underline the tangible impact of fluoridated water, particularly in cost savings and enhanced oral health for vulnerable populations.
Outcome | Statistic |
---|---|
Reduction in Tooth Decay | 25–30% |
Annual Per Capita Savings | $32.19 |
Reduction in Cavities (Low-Income Children) | 40% |
Fluorosis Incidence from CWS | 0 Cases |
Adjacent states exhibit different fluoridation rates based on local mandates and policies.
Variations in state mandates correlate directly with coverage rates and corresponding oral health costs.
State | Fluoridation Rate | Medicaid Dental Expenditures (Per Capita) | Untreated Decay Rate |
---|---|---|---|
Illinois | 98.2% | $32 | 12% |
Kentucky | 99.7% | Data Not Listed | Data Not Listed |
Wisconsin | 87.9% | Data Not Listed | 18% |
Indiana | 76.4% | $45 | Data Not Listed |
Missouri | 70.6% | $45 | Data Not Listed |
Overall, these statistics highlight Illinois’ robust coverage rates, consistent adherence to optimal fluoride levels, and the significant economic and dental health benefits associated with the state’s long-standing program.
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