Public Health issues annual reminder about fluoride and sodium

Media Release

January 23, 2024

Public Health issues annual reminder about fluoride and sodium in Oxford drinking water.

Southwestern Public Health is issuing a public reminder about levels of naturally present fluoride and sodium in some of Oxford County’s municipal drinking water which may pose a concern for specific residents. Parents with children seven years of age and under should be aware of fluoride exposure to prevent dental fluorosis, while those on sodium-restricted diets should pay close attention to sodium they may be consuming from municipal water.

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. Fluoride levels above 1.5 mg/L have been reported in the communities of Brownsville, Ingersoll, Lakeside, Mount Elgin, and Oxford South during recent sampling events. 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.

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, Mount Elgin, Oxford South, Plattsville, Tavistock, Thamesford, Tillsonburg and Woodstock.

Read the full Health Information Advisory for sodium.

Oxford County’s 17 municipal drinking water systems are monitored 24/7 to ensure safety and quality.

Comment
“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.” Amy Pavletic, Program Manager, Environmental Health

Background
Oxford County Public Health began issuing Health Information Advisories in 2013, following feedback from residents who wanted to receive regular updates about their drinking water. Under Ontario’s Safe Drinking Water Act, Public Health already notifies health professionals and the community whenever water testing results require public education. The Health Information Advisories help reaffirm the safety of municipal drinking water systems while raising awareness about the health considerations of some residents.