High Fluoride and Sodium Levels in Municipal Drinking Water

Tuesday, 8 December 2020 17:33

Southwestern Public Health is issuing it's yearly reminder about the levels of fluoride and sodium in some Oxford County municipal water systems.

OXFORD COUNTY - Southwestern Public Health is issuing it's yearly reminder about the levels of fluoride and sodium in some Oxford County municipal water systems.

Parents with kids under the age of 7 should be aware of the fluoride exposure to prevent dental fluorosis. The sodium levels are very small, however it could make a difference to someone on a sodium restricted diet.

Fluoride

While fluoride levels up to 2.4 mg/L are safe to drink, fluoride levels above 1.5 mg/L may cause dental fluorosis (discolouration of the teeth) in children seven years of age and under. This year, fluoride levels above 1.5 mg/L have been reported in the communities of Brownsville, Ingersoll, Lakeside, and Oxford South. Southwestern Public Health recommends households with young children in these communities cut back on other sources of fluoride to prevent fluorosis, like choosing non-fluoride toothpaste.

Sodium

Sodium levels in drinking water are only a concern for individuals on sodium-restricted diets. This includes people with kidney disease, heart disease, high blood pressure or liver disease. These residents should speak to their physician or health care provider about how sodium in the water may affect their health. Communities with sodium levels that range above the recommended level of 20 mg/L include: Bright, Brownsville, Embro, Ingersoll, Oxford South, Thamesford, Tillsonburg and Woodstock.

Program Manager for Environmental Health at Southwestern Public Health Amy Pavletic says they issue this reminder every year.

"Fluoride and sodium are naturally-occurring minerals in Oxford County’s water supply. While these minerals are harmless for most people, those with health challenges that could be impacted by excess sodium in their diet should be keenly aware of the sodium content in drinking water. As well, parents in certain communities should note fluoride levels, which could cause cosmetic dental discolouration in young children. It’s all about giving residents the information they need to make the best decisions for their personal and family’s health."