What is the recommended quantity of fluoride concentrate in public water supplies?

The recommended quantity of fluoride concentrate in public water supplies is typically set at 1 part per million (ppm). This level has been established based on extensive research and public health guidelines, as it provides an optimal balance of fluoride benefits in preventing dental caries while minimizing the risk of dental fluorosis, a condition caused by excessive fluoride exposure during childhood.

Fluoride at a concentration of 1 ppm is effective in promoting the remineralization of tooth enamel and reducing the incidence of cavities in the population. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations endorse this concentration as a safe and effective measure for public health.

Concentrations above this level, such as 2 ppm or higher, may increase the risk of fluorosis and are generally not recommended for community water systems. Similarly, lower levels, such as 0.5 ppm, may not provide sufficient protection against decay in areas with a high prevalence of cavities. Thus, the guideline set at 1 ppm remains the standard for public water fluoridation.