What is considered the safe and recommended concentration of fluoride in drinking water?

The recommended concentration of fluoride in drinking water is one part per million. This level has been established by various health organizations, including the U.S. Public Health Service, as effective in preventing tooth decay while minimizing the risk of dental fluorosis, which can occur with excessive fluoride exposure.

One part per million (ppm) is considered optimal because it provides enough fluoride to enhance the remineralization of enamel and combat caries formation, particularly in children whose teeth are still developing. Fluoride at this concentration achieves a balance between providing dental health benefits and avoiding potential adverse effects associated with higher concentrations.

In comparison, concentrations such as two parts per million or five parts per million exceed the recommended levels and increase the risk of fluorosis. Additionally, one part per hundred million is far too low to offer any significant benefit in terms of dental health. Therefore, one part per million is the ideal concentration for community water fluoridation programs.