Maine Water Fluoride: Updated Statistics

Water fluoridation is a crucial public health measure that has been implemented in many states across the U.S., including Maine. The practice involves adjusting the fluoride levels in public water supplies to help prevent tooth decay and improve overall oral health. Here’s a closer look at the current state of water fluoridation in Maine and how it compares to national trends.

Maine has consistently shown a strong commitment to water fluoridation, with a significant portion of its population having access to fluoridated water. In fact, the state’s fluoridation coverage is higher than the national average, highlighting the importance placed on this public health intervention. Let’s dive into some key statistics:

• In 2020, 79.5% of Maine’s population served by community water systems had access to fluoridated water, compared to the national average of 72.7%.
• There are 65 community water systems in Maine that currently fluoridate, providing drinking water to 133 communities and over 520,000 people.
• Every dollar spent on community water fluoridation in Maine saves at least $38 in costs for dental treatment.

Access to Fluoridated Water in Maine

Maine has seen a relatively stable trend in the percentage of its population with access to fluoridated water over the years.

• In 2014, about 80% of Maine people on public water supplies had fluoridated water.
• This figure remained relatively stable, with a slight decrease to 79.5% in 2020.

Maine’s Fluoridation Coverage Compared to National Averages

When compared to national statistics, Maine consistently ranks above average in terms of fluoridation coverage.

• In 2020, 72.7% of the U.S. population on community water systems received fluoridated water.
• Maine’s 2020 figure of 79.5% is well above the national average, showcasing the state’s strong commitment to water fluoridation.

Public Health Impact and Support

The impact of water fluoridation on public health in Maine is significant, and the practice has garnered support from various organizations.

• Community water fluoridation has been recognized by the CDC as one of the 10 great public health achievements in the 20th century.
• Every dollar spent on community water fluoridation in Maine saves at least $38 in costs for dental treatment.

Local Decision-Making and Legislation

In Maine, the decision to fluoridate a water supply is made at the local level, with communities having a say in the process.

• The decision to fluoridate a water supply in Maine is made by the local municipality and is not mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the State of Maine.
• In Maine, water is fluoridated by public referendum, where people in all the communities served by a water district vote to add fluoride.

Maine’s commitment to water fluoridation is evident in the high percentage of its population with access to fluoridated water, which consistently remains above the national average. The state’s approach to local decision-making and the recognized public health benefits of fluoridation have contributed to the success of this important oral health intervention. As Maine continues to prioritize water fluoridation, its residents can look forward to better dental health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs in the long run.