Fluoride Facts   Archived Newsletter (March-April 2001)                     

Fluoridation is the process of adding fluoride to the water to help prevent tooth decay. Studies over the years have shown that fluoride strengthens children's teeth and reduces tooth decay. For this reason Salt Lake Valley Health Department will require Granger-Hunter Improvement District to maintain the optimal level of fluoride in all water furnished to the public. Even though only a small percentage of the water is taken internally, all water will require treating with fluoride to the optimal level. Granger-Hunter's groundwater wells contain some naturally occurring fluoride, enough fluoride will be added to bring the concentration up to the optimal level.

Fluoride is introduced into the water system by adding one of several fluoride containing chemicals currently available to the water industry.

Some of the more commonly asked questions regarding fluoride are the following:

Is fluoride  in my drinking water safe?  Yes, fluoride in the proper amounts, when added or naturally occurring, is beneficial to human health. The  1993 report "Health Effects of Ingested Fluoride" by the national research council of the National Academy of Sciences stated, "currently allowed fluoride levels in drinking water do not pose any risks of health problems..."

Is tap water suitable for use in home kidney dialysis machines? In a kidney dialysis machine, the water is brought into close contact with the patient's blood. Thus, the quality requirements are far stricter than those for ordinary drinking water. Dialysis patients should check with their medical doctor and /or dialysis center.

Will I lose the benefits of fluoride in my drinking water if I install a home treatment device? Certain types of home treatment devices will remove minerals contained in the water, including fluoride. If you use one of these treatment types of devices  consult with your dentist and possibly your doctor about supplements ( water softeners will not effect fluoride in the water).

As we receive additional information and direction from the Salt Lake Valley Health Department  and the Utah State Department of Environmental Quality we will keep you informed.