Rhode Island Water Fluoride: Updated Statistics

Water fluoridation is a common practice in the United States, with the goal of improving dental health by reducing tooth decay. Rhode Island, a small state in New England, has a long history of providing fluoridated water to its residents. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the current state of water fluoridation in Rhode Island and how it compares to the rest of the country.

Rhode Island has consistently maintained a high percentage of its population with access to fluoridated water. As of 2018, 83.2% of the state’s residents were served by community water systems that provide fluoridated water. This puts Rhode Island well above the national average of 73% in the same year.

• In 2018, 83.2% of Rhode Island’s population had access to fluoridated water, compared to the national average of 73%.
• Rhode Island’s percentage of population with access to fluoridated water has remained relatively stable, with 85.1% in 2000 and 83.2% in 2018.
• The Rhode Island Department of Health supports community water fluoridation as a safe and effective way to reduce tooth decay.

Strong Commitment to Water Fluoridation

Rhode Island has demonstrated a strong commitment to water fluoridation as a public health measure. The state’s high percentage of population with access to fluoridated water reflects this dedication.

• The Rhode Island Department of Health bases its support for water fluoridation on extensive research and the recommendations of numerous national and international health organizations.

Local Decision-Making

In Rhode Island, community water fluoridation is not mandated by the state or federal government. Instead, the decision to fluoridate water supplies is made at the local level.

• Many Rhode Island municipalities have chosen to fluoridate their drinking water, although none have been forced to do so by the state or federal government.

National Water Fluoridation Statistics

While Rhode Island has a high percentage of its population with access to fluoridated water, it’s important to consider the national context as well.

• In 2018, 63.4% of the total US population and 73% of the population on community water systems received fluoridated drinking water.
• The Healthy People 2030 objective aims for 77.1% of people served by community water systems to receive water with the optimum level of fluoride.

Rhode Island’s commitment to water fluoridation has resulted in a high percentage of its population having access to fluoridated water, surpassing the national average. The state’s support for this public health measure, along with the local decision-making process, has contributed to the consistent provision of fluoridated water to its residents. As the nation works towards the Healthy People 2030 objective, Rhode Island serves as an example of the potential benefits of widespread water fluoridation.