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New Hampshire’s water fluoridation statistics have undergone marked changes over the past two decades, with variations in coverage, demographic disparities, and emerging health metrics. This article compiles comprehensive data on fluoridation rates, population coverage, and comparative figures to provide an up-to-date, statistically driven overview of the current landscape.
While many U.S. states surpass New Hampshire in fluoridation coverage, the Granite State’s relatively decentralized system and rural infrastructure challenges have led to wide gaps in fluoride availability. By examining historical trends alongside present-day data, readers can gain clear insights into the patterns and outcomes associated with New Hampshire’s fluoridated water supply.
These select data points outline the scope of fluoride coverage, usage, and health outcomes in New Hampshire:
These figures represent just a snapshot of the available data, underscoring statewide disparities and the continuing debate over fluoridation practices. The following sections provide a deeper look at historical context, current coverage, regional comparisons, and associated health metrics.
Understanding past coverage rates clarifies how modern trends developed.
These numbers reflect early efforts to boost coverage despite a decentralized approach. Gradual increases in urban areas contrasted with more limited expansion in rural regions. The table below offers a brief summary of historical benchmarks:
Year | Estimated Fluoridation Coverage | Key Developments |
---|---|---|
2002 | 43% of residents on public systems | WFRS baseline report |
2007 | 350,000 total individuals (~25% of state population) | Rapid growth in cities |
2012 | ~25-30% of population | Fluoride Notification Law passed |
By analyzing these milestones, it becomes clear that policy changes, community decisions, and evolving health guidelines all influenced coverage levels across New Hampshire.
Recent data sheds light on how much of the population is served and which groups are most affected by coverage gaps.
These figures point to an urban-rural divide, as well as periodic supply chain issues that can disrupt service even in areas accustomed to fluoridation. The table below organizes current coverage data by major county types:
County Type | Fluoridation Rate | Notable Findings |
---|---|---|
Metropolitan | ~72% | Manchester & other large cities drive coverage |
Non-core Rural | ~12% | Lack of infrastructure, decentralized systems |
Overall Statewide | 25–30% | Varies significantly by region |
Although some communities have achieved steady access, the statewide average remains lower compared to the broader New England region due to these demographic splits.
Comparisons with nearby states highlight how New Hampshire’s fluoridation coverage fits into a broader regional context.
The figures across state lines underscore the effect of legislative mandates and state-level policies on achieving higher coverage. See below for a summary of New England fluoridation coverage rates:
State | Coverage % | Primary Policy Driver |
---|---|---|
Maine | 79.5% | Mandates for water systems >3,000 residents |
Massachusetts | 75% | Fluoridation required in larger municipalities |
Vermont | 68% | Grant-based approach for rural upgrades |
New Hampshire | 25–30% | Local decision-making, varied infrastructures |
Significant policy variations contribute to these differences, with New Hampshire adopting fewer statewide mandates. As a result, coverage levels trail behind regional counterparts.
Fluoridation rates not only influence oral health outcomes but also affect economic and care-related factors.
Data points such as caries prevalence and dental expenditures highlight tangible effects of lower fluoridation coverage. This table offers additional figures on fluoride-related health metrics:
Metric | NH Value | Comparison/Context |
---|---|---|
Dental Caries in Adolescents | 22% higher than Maine | Reflects coverage gap |
Child Fluorosis Rate | 15% mild cases | 12% in regions with higher coverage |
Reduction in Decay from Fluoridation | 25–40% | National average range |
Medicaid Dental Spending | $38/person | $24 national average |
While fluorosis concerns persist, the potential benefits for preventing caries and reducing emergency dental visits remain statistically significant.
Overall, New Hampshire’s data demonstrates modest coverage that significantly trails neighboring states. Disparities between urban and rural areas remain pronounced, and cost indicators underscore the real-world impacts of fluoridation policies and practices.
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