South Dakota Water Fluoride: Updated Statistics

Water fluoridation is a crucial public health measure that helps prevent tooth decay and promote oral health. In South Dakota, the majority of the population has access to fluoridated water, thanks to the state’s strong commitment to this practice. Let’s take a closer look at the current state of water fluoridation in South Dakota and how it compares to national trends.

Here are a few key statistics that highlight the importance of water fluoridation in South Dakota:

• As of 2018, 93.7% of South Dakota’s population served by community water systems had access to fluoridated water, significantly higher than the national average of 72.7% in 2020.
• South Dakota mandates fluoridation for all communities of 500 or more, except where natural fluoride content conforms to State Department of Health regulations, contributing to the high percentage of the population receiving fluoridated water.
• Community water fluoridation is recognized as a cost-effective public health intervention that prevents tooth decay by ensuring teeth have frequent contact with low levels of fluoride.

Access to Fluoridated Water in South Dakota

South Dakota has consistently maintained a high percentage of its population with access to fluoridated water:

• In 2018, 93.7% of South Dakota’s population served by community water systems had access to fluoridated water.
• The percentage has shown a slight fluctuation over the years, with 95.0% in 2006, a slight decrease to 93.6% in 2014, and maintaining at 93.7% in 2018.

Comparison to National Averages

South Dakota’s commitment to water fluoridation stands out when compared to national figures:

• Nationally, 72.7% of the U.S. population on community water systems received fluoridated water in 2020.
• South Dakota’s figure of 93.7% in 2018 is significantly above the national average.

Legislation and Public Health Support

South Dakota’s high rate of access to fluoridated water is due in part to supportive legislation and public health efforts:

• South Dakota mandates fluoridation for all communities of 500 or more, except where natural fluoride content conforms to State Department of Health regulations.
• This legislation has contributed to the high percentage of the population receiving fluoridated water.

Public Health Impact

Water fluoridation is a proven public health measure that helps prevent tooth decay and promote oral health:

• Community water fluoridation is recognized as a cost-effective public health intervention to prevent tooth decay.
• Water fluoridation prevents tooth decay by ensuring that teeth have frequent contact with low levels of fluoride.

South Dakota’s strong commitment to water fluoridation has resulted in one of the highest percentages of the population having access to fluoridated water in the United States. By maintaining this practice and supporting legislation, South Dakota continues to prioritize the oral health of its residents, setting an example for other states to follow.