Sodium and Fluoride Levels in Oxford County Water

Thursday, 14 November 2019 at 11:07

Southwestern public health has issued it's annual public reminder about levels of fluoride and sodium in our water in Oxford County.

OXFORD COUNTY - Southwestern public health has issued it's annual public reminder about levels of fluoride and sodium in our water in Oxford County.

For some residents, the levels may pose a risk, specifically anyone on a sodium restricted diet. Parents with kids under the age of seven years should also be aware of the fluoride exposure to prevent dental fluorisis.

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.

Read the full Health Information Advisory for fluoride online here.

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.

Read the full Health Information Advisory for sodium online here.

The 17 municipal water systems in Oxford County are monitored 24/7 to ensure safety and quality. Program Manager with Environmental 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."