Wyoming Water Fluoride: Updated Statistics

Water fluoridation is a crucial public health measure that helps prevent tooth decay and promote oral health. In Wyoming, the decision to fluoridate water is made at the local level, resulting in varying access to fluoridated water across the state. Let’s take a closer look at the current state of water fluoridation in Wyoming and its impact on public health.

Here are some key statistics about water fluoridation in Wyoming:

• As of 2018, 55.6% of Wyoming’s population served by community water systems had access to fluoridated water.
• Wyoming’s fluoridation coverage is below the national average of 72.7% in 2020.
• The percentage of Wyoming’s population with access to fluoridated water has increased from 36.4% in 2006 to 55.6% in 2018.

Access to Fluoridated Water in Wyoming

In 2018, just over half of Wyoming’s population served by community water systems had access to fluoridated water.

• 55.6% of Wyoming’s population on community water systems received fluoridated water in 2018.
• This percentage is lower than the national average of 72.7% in 2020.

Trends in Water Fluoridation Coverage

Wyoming has seen an increase in the percentage of its population with access to fluoridated water over the years.

• In 2006, only 36.4% of Wyoming’s population had access to fluoridated water.
• By 2018, this percentage had increased to 55.6%, showing a positive trend in fluoridation coverage.

Local Control Over Fluoridation Policies

Wyoming does not have a state mandate for water fluoridation, leaving the decision to fluoridate water supplies up to local governments.

• City councils can choose to start or stop fluoridating their water supplies at their discretion or through a referendum vote.
• This local autonomy has led to some communities, like Sheridan, voting to stop fluoridating their water supply based on the preferences of their residents.

Public Health Impact of Water Fluoridation

Community water fluoridation is a proven method for reducing tooth decay and improving oral health, but not all communities in Wyoming have embraced this public health measure.

• Fluoridation is recognized as one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities and promote good oral health.
• However, some communities in Wyoming have chosen not to fluoridate their water supplies, potentially missing out on these benefits.

Water fluoridation in Wyoming is a complex issue influenced by local decision-making processes and public opinions. While over half of the state’s population has access to fluoridated water, there is still room for improvement to reach the national average and ensure that more people can benefit from this important public health measure. As discussions about water fluoridation continue in Wyoming, it will be crucial to balance local autonomy with the proven benefits of fluoridation for promoting oral health and preventing tooth decay.