Fluoride
 
     
 

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Helix began its fluoridation program in December 2007 in conjunction with Metropolitan Water District’s (MWD’s) fluoridation startup. In May 2009, the Helix board authorized staff to continue fluoridation as long as San Diego County Water Authority (SDCWA) and MWD continue fluoridation. The Helix fluoridation program has been approved by the California Department of Public Health. This program includes strict monthly reporting to the California Department of Public Health.

   
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is fluoride?
A. Fluoride is a naturally occurring ionic form of fluorine, the 13th most abundant element on Earth. It is found in many rocks and minerals in the soil and enters drinking water as water passes through these soils. Fluoride is present naturally in almost all foods and beverages including water, but levels can vary widely.

Q. How much fluoride will Helix add to my water?
A. Helix will supplement naturally occurring fluoride in our drinking water to meet the standards established by the California Department of Public Health. The optimal level of fluoride in our area is 0.8 milligrams per liter (mg/L) with a control range of 0.7-1.3 mg/L. Helix uses fluorosilicic acid, a chemical certified under ANSI/NSF Standard 60 and approved by the California Department of Public Health.

Q. Should I or my children take fluoride supplements?
A. Helix water customers currently using fluoride supplements are advised to consult their prescribing physician or dentist about taking fluoride supplements.

Q. Will fluoridation affect my children?
A. Parents and caregivers should consult their pediatrician, family physician, or dentist on the most appropriate water to use in their area to reconstitute infant formula. Since some children may have special medical needs, ask your pediatrician or physician whether fluoridated water should be used in the makeup of baby formula or whether your children should be taking fluoride supplements, drops or tablets.

Q. I have a fish tank. Will fluoridation affect my fish?
A. No. Fluoridated water will have no affect on the fish in your aquarium.

For More Information

If you have any questions regarding fluoridation, please call the Fluoride Information Hotline (619) 667-1751 or send email to fluoride@helixwater.org.

Other informative fluoridation websites are:

American Dental Association
www.ada.org/public/topics/fluoride/
Phone: (312) 440-2500

Please read the following fact sheet for infants under 12 months:
www.ada.org/public/topics/fluoride/infantsformula_faq.asp

Centers for Disease Control
www.cdc.gov/fluoridation/
Phone: (800) 311-3435

California Department of Public Health
www.cdph.ca.gov/certlic/drinkingwater/Pages/fluoridation.aspx