What is the Texas standard for fluoride in the water?

The Texas standard for fluoride in drinking water is set at 2.0 mg/L. This standard is established to ensure that the levels of fluoride are sufficient to provide dental health benefits while minimizing the risk of negative health effects associated with excessive fluoride exposure.

Maintaining this level helps in the prevention of dental caries (tooth decay) while balancing it against potential issues like dental fluorosis, which can occur at higher concentrations. The standard reflects research and guidelines from health organizations that advocate for community fluoridation as a public health measure.

It is important for water treatment plant operators and water quality managers to regularly test fluoride levels and ensure that they remain within this standard to protect public health effectively.