New Iowa law requires public water systems to notify consumers 90 days prior to any decision to permanently discontinue water fluoridation

From Sarah Petersen, Community Water Fluoridation Coordinator, IDPH

“Effective July 1, a new Iowa law requires an owner or operator of a public water supply system to notify consumers served by the system at least ninety days prior to taking any action to permanently discontinue fluoridation of its water supply. The public water supply must also provide notice to the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH).  The link to the legislation can be found here. 

Community water fluoridation is the precise adjustment of natural fluoride levels to the optimal level of 0.7 mg/L to prevent cavities. Some benefits of community water fluoridation include:  

• Being a cost-effective and efficient way to prevent and reduce tooth decay. 
• For every $1 spent on community water fluoridation, $38 in dental treatment costs are saved.
• Reduction in cavities by at least 25% in both children and adults.  
• A lifetime of cavity prevention regardless of age, income, or education.

“This law will allow for consumers’ awareness of the status of fluoridation in their water supply to ensure they are receiving the needed amount of fluoride to prevent cavities,” said Dr. Bob Russell, Dental Director, Bureau of Oral and Health Delivery Systems. “We continue to support community water fluoridation as a safe, effective, and equitable way to achieve optimal oral health of a population.” 

The IDPH Bureau of Oral and Health Delivery Systems monitors the fluoride levels of Iowa communities and provides information, education, and assistance to water supply professionals, health care professionals, and the public. To see the fluoridation status of Iowa counties and towns, visit My Water’s Fluoride.

Any questions related to this law should be directed to Sarah Petersen, Community Water Fluoridation Coordinator, Iowa Department of Public Health. 515-204-3450 or sarah.petersen@idph.iowa.gov.”