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North Carolina has a strong commitment to water fluoridation as a public health measure, with a higher percentage of the population having access to fluoridated water compared to the national average. In 2020, nearly 90% of North Carolina’s population was serviced by fluoridated water, a slight increase from 87.6% in 2018. This is significantly above the national average of 72.7% of the U.S. population on community water systems receiving fluoridated water in 2020.
The percentage of North Carolina’s population with access to fluoridated water has shown a steady increase over the years, from 78.5% in 1992 to 87.6% in 2018. This demonstrates the state’s ongoing efforts to expand access to this preventive oral health measure. Here are some key statistics about water fluoridation in North Carolina:
The preventive oral health benefits of fluoridated water are significant.
While North Carolina does not mandate statewide fluoridation, local governments control fluoridation policy.
While North Carolina’s fluoridation rates are higher than the national average, it’s important to consider the broader context of water fluoridation in the United States.
North Carolina’s commitment to water fluoridation is evident in the high percentage of its population with access to fluoridated water. Despite some local debates and decisions to ban fluoride, the state continues to prioritize this public health measure, recognizing its benefits in preventing cavities and promoting oral health. As the national conversation around water fluoridation continues, North Carolina serves as an example of a state that has embraced this preventive measure and seen positive results in the oral health of its residents.
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