WSSC Water is temporarily reducing the amount of fluoride added to drinking water for its 1.9 million customers in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, citing nationwide supply chain disruptions tied in part to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
According to WSSC Water, fluoride levels at its Potomac and Patuxent Water Filtration Plants will be lowered this afternoon from about 0.7 milligrams per liter to 0.4 milligrams per liter.
The utility said the water remains safe and that the temporary change does not affect overall water quality.
WSSC Water said the disruption involves hydrofluorosilicic acid, the compound used in community water fluoridation. The market for that compound has been strained in recent months due to reduced domestic production and lower output from other suppliers. One major supplier in Israel has also experienced significant operational impacts, resulting in reduced volumes available to utilities like WSSC Water.
While fluoride is not required by federal or state regulations, it is widely used as a public health measure to help prevent tooth decay and strengthen teeth. WSSC Water noted that organizations including the CDC, WHO, American Dental Association, and American Academy of Pediatrics support community water fluoridation.
“This is a temporary adjustment driven solely by supply availability,” said WSSC Water Director of Production Ben Thompson. “We remain committed to maintaining safe, high-quality drinking water and will restore optimal fluoride levels as soon as supply conditions stabilize.”
WSSC Water is encouraging customers, especially children and those at higher risk for tooth decay, to consult their dentist or healthcare provider about alternative fluoride sources during the temporary reduction.
