What is the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for fluoride in drinking water?

The maximum contaminant level (MCL) for fluoride in drinking water is established to protect public health from the potential harmful effects of excessive fluoride exposure. The MCL set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is 4.0 mg/L. This limit is based on scientific studies that evaluate the health risks associated with high concentrations of fluoride, including the risk for dental and skeletal fluorosis, which occur with prolonged consumption of fluoride at elevated levels.

Establishing the MCL at 4.0 mg/L provides a balance between the benefits of fluoride in preventing dental cavities and the risks of negative health outcomes when fluoride levels exceed safe thresholds. This regulatory standard ensures that drinking water supplies are safe for consumption and that the public health goals are met effectively. Other proposed limits do not align with the established regulatory standards, emphasizing the importance of adhering to EPA guidelines for water quality management.