Fluoride in UK water: what’s in yours, and who decides

What fluoride is, and where it comes from

Fluoride is in most tap water already, at low levels. The Oral Health Foundation describes it simply: “Fluoride is a natural mineral. It is found in things like tea, fish, and some water supplies.” Oral Health Foundation The DWI says “Fluoride is naturally present at low levels in most drinking water in England and Wales.” DWI Tap a number on the diagram at the top of the page, or read the four points below.

Fluoridation: who decides

Whether your water is fluoridated is a government decision, not your water company's. “In England, the decision to fluoridate your water supply is made by the Secretary of State.” DWI “In Wales, health decisions about fluoridation are taken by the Welsh Government.” DWI

There is a process: “When deciding whether to fluoridate the Secretary of State must carry out a consultation exercise, the findings of which must be taken into consideration when reaching a final decision.” DWI “The law only permits a water company to fluoridate under a contract with the Department of Health and Social Care.” DWI

The DWI names five companies currently required to fluoridate some or all of their supplies DWI: United Utilities, Northumbrian Water, Anglian Water, Severn Trent Water and South Staffordshire Water. The Oral Health Foundation puts the reach at “In England, about one in ten people have fluoridated water.” Oral Health Foundation

Fluoridation is being extended in the North East. The government's response to its consultation says “Over 1 million people in the north east currently live in areas with fluoridated water, including in Newcastle upon Tyne and Gateshead, with schemes in place since the early 1970s.” DHSC It confirms that “the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care has decided to expand community water fluoridation in the north east, as proposed.” DHSC The proposal covers areas including Tees Valley, County Durham, Sunderland, South Tyneside and parts of Northumberland. The government is working with Northumbrian Water to put it in place. The Fluoride Checker shows today's typical level, not future plans.

The other UK nations are different. In Scotland, “Fluoride is not added to any drinking water supply in Scotland.” DWQR In Northern Ireland, NI Water says it “has never artificially fluoridated the public water supply in Northern Ireland.” NI Water No Welsh water company is on the DWI's list of companies required to fluoridate.

Views on fluoridation differ. This page sets out what the regulator says and what the data shows for your area, and leaves the debate to you.

The legal limit

The DWI checks every supply against the limit: “This includes checking that water supplies do not contain more than 1.5mg/l of fluoride.” DWI “If the standard of 1.5mg/l is breached, then the Drinking Water Inspectorate has the power to take enforcement action to require the water company to rectify the breach.” DWI

Your own supply's figure is free to ask for: “You can obtain a free copy of the water quality test results for the water supply to your home or workplace by contacting your local water company.” DWI

Fluoride in your area

The UK testing map shows the DWI's typical fluoride levels by area, in three bands. Your postcode in the Fluoride Checker shows which band covers the centre of your district, and whether that area is fluoridated or natural.

These are typical levels for an area, not a measurement at your tap. The DWI describes its map as showing “typical concentrations of fluoride in drinking water supplies across England and Wales” DWI.

Fluoride and teeth

Fluoride is used because of its effect on teeth. The Oral Health Foundation says “Fluoride has been used for many years to help protect teeth.” Oral Health Foundation

Too much while teeth are forming has a known effect: “Too much fluoride while teeth are forming can cause dental fluorosis.” Oral Health Foundation “This can lead to faint white marks on the teeth.” Oral Health Foundation “It is usually mild and does not affect how teeth work.” Oral Health Foundation

Its summary: “Fluoride is safe and very effective when used in the right amount.” Oral Health Foundation For advice about your family's teeth, ask your dentist.