Why You Should Test Your Water for Fluoride – Water Testing in New York, NY
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in the earth’s bedrock and groundwater sources. It can easily find its way into your home’s water supply—especially if you rely on a private well—without you even realizing it. Whether you’re in New York, NY or elsewhere in the Northeast, professional water testing is essential to know exactly what’s coming out of your tap.
For decades, public water systems—including many in Connecticut and New York—have added fluoride to municipal supplies in an effort to reduce tooth decay. Fluoride forms when it combines with other minerals underground and can occur naturally or be added during water treatment.
However, the presence of fluoride in water is not without controversy. While low levels are considered beneficial for dental health, excessive fluoride can lead to health concerns. That’s why accurate fluoride testing in drinking water is so important—especially for families who depend on private wells, which are not regulated like municipal supplies.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns that long-term exposure to high levels of fluoride can pose serious health risks. These may include:
The EPA sets a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for fluoride in drinking water, but private wells are not subject to these federal standards—putting the onus on homeowners to monitor their water quality.
In recent years, hundreds of communities nationwide have voted to reduce or eliminate fluoride from public water systems. Many argue that with widespread access to fluoride-containing toothpaste and other dental products, mass fluoridation is no longer necessary.
In response to evolving research, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has revised its fluoride recommendation to 0.7 milligrams per liter, down from the previous range of 0.7–1.2 mg/L. This change reflects a growing recognition that Americans now receive fluoride from many sources—not just drinking water.
Parents, especially those with infants or young children, should be especially cautious. Excessive fluoride intake during tooth development can cause irreversible cosmetic and structural damage.
Whether you’re in New York, NY or across the Tri-State area, now is the time to take control of your water quality. Professional water testing for fluoride helps ensure you’re not unknowingly exposing your family to unsafe levels of this mineral.
Call us today at 888-558-1574 to schedule your water test and get peace of mind.