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Maryland consistently ranks among the leading states for community water fluoridation, with decades of data showing high coverage rates and reduced dental caries among its residents. Tracking this statistical landscape provides valuable insights into coverage trends, regional comparisons, and measurable oral health outcomes.
Over the past twenty years, Maryland’s fluoridation efforts have remained remarkably steady, supported by statewide public health initiatives and widespread adoption in community water systems. The numbers reveal a consistent pattern of high fluoridation coverage, correlating with lower rates of untreated dental decay across different populations.
These figures demonstrate Maryland’s sustained leadership in community water fluoridation coverage. Below, we explore in-depth data on statewide trends, comparisons with neighboring states, and major oral health indicators closely linked to water fluoridation.
This section focuses on statewide fluoridation patterns documented over multiple decades, emphasizing the consistency of coverage rates.
Annual reviews of county-level operations confirm these steadiness indicators, tying Maryland’s consistent coverage to long-standing infrastructure investments and community awareness. Below is a summary table of statewide fluoridation coverage spanning two decades.
Year | % Coverage |
---|---|
2001 | 90–91% |
2010 | 93.1% |
2017 | 94.7% |
2022 | ~94% |
2024 | 93.1% |
Maryland’s positioning relative to nearby states highlights how regional policies and investment levels affect public water fluoridation coverage.
Rankings reflect each state’s public health infrastructure and legislative support. The table below illustrates how Maryland’s coverage compares regionally.
State | % Population Served by Fluoridated Water | National Rank |
---|---|---|
Maryland | 93.1–94.7% | 10th |
Virginia | 94.3% | 11th |
West Virginia | 95.9% | 6th |
Pennsylvania | 54.6% | 47th |
Delaware | ~72% | Below Median |
Examining oral health outcomes provides insight into how fluoridation coverage influences dental caries prevalence and related economic factors.
These indicators show that fluoride coverage aligns with better oral health outcomes and cost efficiencies. The following table highlights selected oral health metrics linked to fluoride exposure.
Population Group | Key Metric | Data |
---|---|---|
Third-Graders | Prevalence of Untreated Caries | 29.7% |
All Residents | Cost Savings per $1 Invested | $38 |
Children in High-Coverage Areas | Reduction in Decayed Surfaces | 26–60% |
Maryland Seniors | Complete Tooth Loss | 12.4% |
While the state generally boasts high coverage, some counties demonstrate different levels of acceptance or system reach.
Differences among counties underscore the need to monitor individual water systems. Below is a simplified look at a few county statuses regarding fluoridation.
County | Fluoridation Status | Notes |
---|---|---|
Calvert | Limited | Primarily private wells, strong local opposition |
Cumberland Area | Fluoridated | Faced legal challenges but maintained coverage |
Anne Arundel | Fluoridated | Adopted 0.7 mg/L standard with advanced monitoring |
Maryland’s enduring track record of over 90% community water fluoridation reflects effective implementation strategies and widespread acceptance. Statistical evidence points to reduced dental caries rates and notable cost savings, making Maryland an important model for other states looking to improve oral health through water fluoridation.
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