Nevada Water Fluoride: Updated Statistics

Water fluoridation is a common practice in the United States, with the goal of improving dental health for the population. Nevada, like many other states, has implemented water fluoridation programs to ensure that a significant portion of its residents have access to fluoridated water. Let’s take a closer look at the current state of water fluoridation in Nevada and how it compares to the rest of the country.

Before diving into the specifics of Nevada’s water fluoridation statistics, it’s important to understand the broader context of water fluoridation in the United States. Nationally, 72.7% of the population served by community water systems had access to fluoridated water in 2020. The Healthy People 2030 objective aims to increase this percentage to 77.1%, highlighting the ongoing efforts to expand water fluoridation coverage across the country.

• In 2020, 76.4% of Nevada’s population served by community water systems had access to fluoridated water, which is above the national average of 72.7%.
• The percentage of Nevada’s population with access to fluoridated water has increased significantly over time, from 65.9% in 2000 to 75.0% in 2018.
• Nevada was ranked #28 among the states for the percentage of its population receiving fluoridated water in 2018.

Nevada’s Water Fluoridation Coverage

Nevada has made significant strides in providing access to fluoridated water for its residents.

• In 2020, 76.4% of Nevada’s population served by community water systems had access to fluoridated water.
• This figure is above the national average of 72.7% for the same year.

The state’s commitment to water fluoridation is evident in the growth of its fluoridation coverage over time.

Legislation and Public Health Support

Nevada has legislation in place to support water fluoridation efforts.

• Nevada Revised Statute 445A mandates fluoridation in all counties with populations greater than 400,000.
• Counties with fewer than 400,000 residents have the option of fluoridation.

This legislation demonstrates the state’s recognition of the public health benefits of water fluoridation.

Community Decisions on Fluoridation

Despite the state’s overall commitment to water fluoridation, some communities in Nevada have chosen not to fluoridate their water supply.

• Washoe County, which includes Reno, does not have fluoridated water due to a 2002 county ballot initiative that struck down water fluoridation.

Public Health Impact

Water fluoridation has been shown to have a significant impact on dental health.

• Community water fluoridation has been shown to reduce tooth decay by approximately 25% in children and adults.
• This leads to better dental health and cost savings for families and the health care system.

Nevada’s high percentage of population with access to fluoridated water suggests that the state is well-positioned to benefit from these public health impacts.

Nevada’s water fluoridation efforts have resulted in a significant portion of the state’s population having access to fluoridated water. With 76.4% of the population served by community water systems receiving fluoridated water in 2020, Nevada exceeds the national average and demonstrates a strong commitment to this public health measure. The state’s legislation mandating fluoridation in larger counties and the documented dental health benefits of fluoridation underscore the importance of these efforts. While some communities have chosen not to fluoridate their water, Nevada’s overall progress in expanding access to fluoridated water is commendable and contributes to improved dental health for its residents.