Updated on May 30, 2024
2 min read

Maryland Water Fluoride: Updated Statistics

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Water fluoridation is a crucial public health measure that has been implemented in many states across the United States, including Maryland. This article will explore the current state of water fluoridation in Maryland, providing key statistics and insights into the impact of this practice on the population’s oral health.

Maryland has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to ensuring access to fluoridated water for its residents. With a high percentage of the population receiving fluoridated water, the state has positioned itself as a leader in this aspect of public health.

  • In Maryland, 93.1% of the population on public water receives fluoridated water, significantly higher than the national average of 72.7%.
  • For every dollar spent on community water fluoridation, up to $38 is saved in treatment costs for tooth decay.
  • Community water fluoridation has been shown to decrease childhood decay by almost 30% over 3-12 years of follow-up.

Access to Fluoridated Water in Maryland

Maryland has consistently maintained a high percentage of its population with access to fluoridated water.

  • As of 2016, 93.1% of Maryland’s population on public water received fluoridated water.
  • The percentage has remained fairly static in recent years, with a slight decrease from 94.7% in 2016.
  • Another source indicates a decrease from 99.8% in 2008 to 93.7%.
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Maryland Compared to National Averages

Maryland’s commitment to water fluoridation becomes even more evident when compared to national averages.

  • Nationally, 72.7% of the U.S. population on community water systems received fluoridated water in 2020.
  • Maryland’s figure of 93.1% is significantly above the national average, showcasing the state’s dedication to this public health measure.
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Public Health Impact and Economic Benefits

The impact of water fluoridation on public health and its economic benefits are substantial.

  • Community water fluoridation has been shown to decrease childhood decay by almost 30% over 3-12 years of follow-up.
  • For every dollar spent on community water fluoridation, up to $38 is saved in treatment costs for tooth decay.

Community Water Systems in Maryland

Maryland has a significant number of community water systems providing fluoridated water to its residents.

  • As of 2016, Maryland had 464 community water systems, with 69 providing fluoridated water to 4,839,044 people.

Maryland’s dedication to water fluoridation is a testament to the state’s commitment to improving the oral health of its residents. By maintaining a high percentage of the population with access to fluoridated water, Maryland has positioned itself as a leader in this crucial aspect of public health. The economic benefits and reduction in childhood tooth decay further underscore the importance of this practice. As Maryland continues to prioritize water fluoridation, its residents can look forward to better oral health outcomes and a healthier future.

Last updated on May 30, 2024
4 Sources Cited
Last updated on May 30, 2024
All NewMouth content is medically reviewed and fact-checked by a licensed dentist or orthodontist to ensure the information is factual, current, and relevant.

We have strict sourcing guidelines and only cite from current scientific research, such as scholarly articles, dentistry textbooks, government agencies, and medical journals. This also includes information provided by the American Dental Association (ADA), the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
  1. Community Water Fluoridation Fact Sheet. Maryland Department of Health, n.d.
  2. Water Fluoridation Communication Plan. Maryland Department of Health, 2018.
  3. 2020 Water Fluoridation Statistics. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022.
  4. Fluoride Exposure and Changes in Dental Caries Prevalence. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), 2023.
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