How Much Fluoride Is in Sarasota’s Tap Water Supply?

According to the City of Sarasota’s 2023 Water Quality Report, the fluoride level detected in Sarasota’s tap water is approximately 0.3 parts per million (ppm). This level falls within the recommended range for promoting dental health without causing adverse effects. The Sarasota County Utilities department, which oversees water treatment, maintains this concentration to provide a beneficial level of fluoride to the public, helping to prevent tooth decay.

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water, and its presence in municipal water supplies is regulated to ensure its safe use for dental health. Sarasota’s water is sourced from local wells and treated at the Sarasota County Water Treatment Plant. Although natural fluoride levels can vary, fluoride is typically added to the water supply during treatment to meet public health guidelines.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets the maximum contaminant level for fluoride at 4.0 milligrams per liter (mg/L), with an optimal level of 0.3 mg/L recommended to prevent dental fluorosis. If you’re concerned about the fluoride level in your tap water, testing your specific water supply is the best way to get accurate results.

While small amounts of fluoride in drinking water are considered safe and even beneficial for dental health, excessive fluoride exposure can cause issues. Dental fluorosis, a condition that causes discoloration and damage to tooth enamel, is one of the most common problems associated with excessive fluoride. In addition, prolonged exposure to high fluoride levels can affect bones and joints, contributing to skeletal fluorosis.

Certain populations, such as infants, children, pregnant women, and individuals with certain health conditions, may be more vulnerable to the adverse effects of fluoride. Some studies have suggested that excessive fluoride exposure may have potential neuropsychiatric risks, including impacts on IQ in children. If you are concerned about fluoride exposure, it’s important to test your water and take steps to mitigate any risks.

To determine how much fluoride is in your water, a professional water test is necessary. Culligan of Sarasota offers comprehensive water testing services to accurately measure fluoride levels, along with other potential contaminants, such as heavy metals, chlorine, and bacteria. After testing, we will provide a detailed report with clear recommendations for improving your water quality.

If high levels of fluoride are detected in your water, Culligan of Sarasota has the perfect solution.

Our advanced Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems are highly effective at reducing fluoride, along with other harmful contaminants. Here’s why Reverse Osmosis is the best choice for fluoride removal:

Fluoride has long been recognized for its role in preventing tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel. Sarasota, like many communities across the U.S., adds fluoride to its water supply to support public health. While it remains a key component in reducing cavities, Culligan of Sarasota offers personalized solutions to help you ensure your family is exposed to only the optimal amount of fluoride.

Preventing Dental Fluorosis and Promoting Oral Health
Excessive fluoride consumption can lead to dental fluorosis, which appears as white spots, discoloration, or even pitting of the enamel on teeth. While fluoride helps to prevent cavities by strengthening tooth enamel, too much exposure—especially during childhood—can lead to cosmetic issues that could affect your child’s smile.

For children, fluoride exposure should be carefully monitored to ensure they are receiving the benefits without overexposure. By using a water filtration system to reduce fluoride levels in Sarasota’s tap water, families can take proactive measures to protect their children’s oral health.

Protecting Bone Health from Long-Term Overexposure
Long-term exposure to elevated fluoride levels can affect bone health, leading to skeletal fluorosis, a condition that results in stiffness, pain, and changes in bone structure. Reducing fluoride intake through effective water filtration can help mitigate these risks, especially for vulnerable populations like pregnant women and young children, whose bones are still developing.

With modern filtration methods like Reverse Osmosis (RO), residents of Sarasota can ensure that their water is safe from excessive fluoride levels, promoting healthy bones and overall wellness.

On April 29, 2025, in a significant shift the Florida House of Representatives recently passed Senate Bill 700 with an 88-27 vote. This wide-ranging legislation includes a provision that would effectively end water fluoridation practices across the state.

While the bill does is prevent local governments from using “water quality additives” for purposes other than meeting drinking standards, improving water quality, or removing contaminants. Florida legislators have confirmed that fluoride would no longer be permitted under this definition.

State Representative Danny Alvarez, a co-sponsor of the bill, defended the legislation by stating, “Nobody argues, here at least, that fluoride has a benefit to your body. What we argue is that we can’t force you to have it, or any other drug, that some simple majority may believe is good for you in the future.”

The bill has now passed both chambers of the state Legislature and will move to Governor Ron DeSantis’ desk for final consideration.

With years of experience serving the Sarasota area, Culligan of Sarasota is your trusted partner for water treatment solutions. Our expert team can help you identify the fluoride levels in your water and recommend the best solutions to ensure your family’s health and safety.

Fluoridation of public water systems began in the 1940s, and Sarasota joined this effort in the 1970s to help reduce tooth decay in the community. Today, fluoride is added to Sarasota’s water at a concentration of 0.7 ppm, which is in line with the optimal levels recommended by the CDC and the EPA.

What are alternative sources of fluoride if I remove it from my water?
Fluoride can still be obtained through fluoridated toothpaste, professional fluoride treatments at the dentist, and certain foods. If you prefer fluoride-free water, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups can still protect your teeth.

How do I know if my water has too much fluoride?
The best way to determine fluoride levels in your water is through a professional water test. Culligan of Sarasota offers comprehensive testing to accurately measure fluoride levels in your home’s water supply.

Is fluoride in drinking water safe for infants?
Infants are more sensitive to fluoride, and excessive exposure can increase the risk of dental fluorosis. If you are concerned about fluoride in your water, using an RO filtration system can ensure safe drinking water for your baby.

Does boiling water remove fluoride?
No, boiling water does not remove fluoride. In fact, boiling can increase fluoride concentration. Reverse Osmosis is the most effective way to remove fluoride from your drinking water.

How does fluoride affect pets?
Excessive fluoride exposure can impact pets, leading to potential dental and bone issues. Using filtered water for pets can help reduce the risk of overexposure to fluoride.