FLUORIDATE (FLUORIDATION)

To add a fluorine compound to a drinking water supply, for example, for the purpose of reducing tooth decay, particularly in children. Since 1962, the U.S. Public Health Service (PHS) has recommended an "optimal" fluoride concentration of 0.7 to 1.2 mg/l (milligrams per liter) to prevent dental caries and minimize mottling (fluorosis). In 1986, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for fluoride at 4 mg/l.