Fluoride
Overview
On April 8, 2025, the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners voted 4–1 to discontinue the addition of fluoride to the County’s public drinking water supply. This decision reflects updated guidance from the Florida Department of Health and ongoing community discussions surrounding the practice of water fluoridation but does not affect City or private utilities.
Background on Fluoridation
- Fluoride in public water supplies became a public health initiative in the United States shortly after World War II. The Florida Department of Health endorsed fluoridation in 1949.
- Seminole County began fluoridating its public water system in 1988, as documented by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP).
Recent State Guidance
- In 2015, the Florida Department of Health adjusted its guidance for fluoride in drinking water based on federal recommendations, lowering the optimal level from 1.0 ppm (parts per million) to 0.7 ppm to reduce the risk of fluorosis (tooth discoloration). Seminole County complied with the revised recommendation.
- On November 22, 2024, Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo issued new guidance advising against continued water fluoridation, citing research linking fluoride exposure to reduced IQ in children.
Read the full FDOH guidance
What to Expect
For County customers connected directly to County-operated water treatment plants:
- The timeline to discontinue supplemental fluoridation will vary by location but is estimated between mid-May and mid-June 2025.
- The raw groundwater used in Seminole County’s water treatment facilities contains naturally occurring fluoride at levels ranging from 0.15 to 0.30 ppm.
Dental Health Considerations
Seminole County encourages all residents to continue practicing good oral hygiene and to explore fluoride alternatives, especially families with children.
Cost-effective fluoridated products - including toothpaste, mouth rinses, and fluoride supplements — are readily available online and on shelves in local grocery stores, pharmacies, superstores, and wholesale clubs.
Residents should consult with their dentist and/or the Florida Department of Health to determine what fluoride products or treatments may be most appropriate for their individual needs.
For more guidance:
- Speak with your dentist or pediatrician
- Contact the Florida Department of Health’s Public Health Dental Program at 850-245-4333
- Visit FloridaHealth.gov
Water Quality Reports
Seminole County remains committed to water quality transparency. Residents may view annual water quality reports online to learn more about the composition of their drinking water and how it is monitored for safety and compliance.