How to remove fluoride from drinking water

07/12/2022 Ellie Murray-Playfair

Whilst you can remove most chemicals from drinking water by using a standard filtration system, fluoride can be more complicated to remove. However, you can eliminate or reduce levels by installing a carbon filter water dispenser.

This article explores the history of adding fluoride to water, also known as fluoridation. As well as, why some people disagree with the practice and who to contact if you have further questions.

Quick Facts

• Fluoride has been added to tap water supplies to improve oral health across Australia and the world since 1953.
• Artificially fluoridated drinking water was provided for over 70% of the population in all states and territories across Australia in 2016.
• Over exposure to fluoride as a child can cause a condition called Fluorosis . This can be caused by swallowing toothpaste or drinking overly fluoridated water and causes teeth to become discoloured and appear a chalky white, yellow or brown.

Why is fluoride added to drinking water?

There has been fluoride in drinking water in Australia since 1953. Utility companies began adding it to help improve oral health after it was found to reduce tooth decay in America.

There is some controversy over artificial fluoridation, with unfounded claims that it causes various health concerns from allergies to arthritis and autism to cancer. These claims are disputed by scientific data proving no link. However, one study did link abnormally high fluoride levels to low IQ in children in China.

The History of Fluoridation

Fluoride was first added to drinking water in 1945, in Grand Rapids, a town in Michigan, USA. A dentist named Frederick McKay found that many of his patients in Colorado had brown stained teeth which were more resistant to tooth decay.

After research into potential causes, this proved to be due to high levels of naturally occurring fluoride in the town’s water supply. This discovery led to the chemical being added to water supplies across the world to increase dental health.

What is the recommended dose of fluoride in drinking water?

As of 2016 artificially fluoridated water is supplied for over 70% of the population in all states and territories across Australia, with the current recommended amounts within the guidelines set by Australian Drinking Water at a maximum of 1.5mg/L.

Is Fluoride in Water Bad for your Health?

Both natural and artificial versions of the compound are a safe and effective way to protect your dental health. However, in excess, it can cause side effects including dental fluorosis, which can cause staining and pitting of your teeth.

Australian authorities suggest a health guideline of 1.5mg per litre of water as a safe level to optimize benefits and avoid any side effects. On the other hand, it should be noted that the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a world leading health organisation, recommends a level of 0.7mg per litre as the ideal balance for maintaining oral health whilst avoiding any unwanted issues. Replacing the previously recommended range of 0.7 to 1.2 milligrams per litre.

How to check fluoride levels in Water?

You can contact your water provider to request information about fluoride in your community water supply. There are also kits available online to carry out your own testing at home.

How to Remove Fluoride from Water?

Whilst some chemicals can be removed through filtration systems and jugs, fluoride proves to be a more difficult chemical to remove and is only achieved using specialised filters and reverse osmosis systems.

How do carbon filters remove fluoride from water?

Carbon filters can often reduce fluoride levels by 40% - 60% as well as other unpleasant odours and tastes. Waterlogic’s carbon filters trap even the smallest impurities using the only safe certified material from 100% renewable resources.

Who to contact for further help?

Western Australia

The Western Australian Health Department can be contacted on 08 9222 4222.

Northern Australia

Northern Australia is a territory with a wide array of public bodies that serve individual regions. Visit the Department of Health for the Northern Territory Government website to find out more.

Queensland

For contact details for The Queensland Government Department of Energy and Water Supply, follow this link.

South Australia

You can contact SA water via the SA Water through their contact page here.

New South Wales

Contact the NSW Ministry of Health via their contact page here.

Victoria

Contact the government’s dedicated department for their fluoridation program on: 1800 651 723.

What else is in my water?

Learn how to treat other water contaminants with our educational resource ‘What’s in my tap water ’.