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Concentration levels of fluoride in bottled drinking water
Sissy A Johnson1, Christina DeBiase
1Department of Dental Hygiene, West Virginia University Institute of Technology, Montgomery, West Virginia, USA.
Journal of Dental Hygiene : JDH
|November 5, 2003
Summary
Most bottled water brands lack sufficient fluoride for optimal dental health, with many not listing fluoride content. This study analyzed 65 brands, finding few with adequate or accurately labeled fluoride levels.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Public Health
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Fluoride is crucial for maintaining optimal dental health and preventing cavities.
- Bottled water consumption is widespread, yet its fluoride content and labeling accuracy are not well-documented.
- Understanding fluoride levels in bottled water is essential for public health and consumer information.
Purpose of the Study:
- To classify bottled water brands based on manufacturer labeling.
- To verify the fluoride concentration in brands claiming to contain fluoride.
- To determine the presence and concentration of fluoride in brands not listing it.
Main Methods:
- A convenience sample of 65 bottled water brands sold in West Virginia was collected.
- Six types of bottled water were identified based on package wording.
- Fluoride concentration in 150 mL samples was analyzed using an Orion EA940 microprocessor.
Main Results:
- Only 12.3% of brands contained optimal fluoride levels (0.6-1.2 ppm).
- 95% of analyzed bottled waters did not list fluoride content on their labels.
- Only three brands had fluoride concentrations matching their label claims.
Conclusions:
- Solely consuming bottled water may not provide adequate fluoride for dental health.
- Most bottled waters have low fluoride concentrations, posing minimal risk for fluorosis.
- Despite varied branding, the chemical composition of most bottled waters is similar regarding fluoride.