Because Fluoride is associated with health effects at sustained elevated exposures, residents in Dartmouth, Massachusetts may find it useful that local water systems have returned detectable concentrations — facts that bear on long-term household water decisions.

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-04-05

Fluoride in Dartmouth Tap Water

Fluoride has been detected in Dartmouth, Massachusetts drinking water at a maximum level of 44 ppb — below the EPA MCL of 4.0 mg/L (MCL) / 2.0 mg/L (SMCL).

This analysis covers 24,630 residents across 1 ZIP code in Dartmouth.

Dartmouth's overall water quality grade is C (62/100).

Is Fluoride in Dartmouth Water Safe?

If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis or activated alumina filter certified under NSF 58 and testing your water independently.

Fluoride Levels by ZIP Code

Average fluoride level across Dartmouth: 44 ppb

Health Effects of Fluoride

• Skeletal fluorosis at levels above 4 mg/L (bone pain, joint stiffness)
• Dental fluorosis in children at levels above 2 mg/L
• At 0.7 mg/L (water fluoridation level), helps prevent tooth decay
• Possible thyroid effects at high chronic exposure

Health risk severity: Moderate. Governed by the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.

How Fluoride Gets Into Drinking Water

• Intentional water fluoridation (0.7 mg/L target, beneficial)
• Natural deposits in certain rock formations
• Industrial discharge (aluminum, fertilizer production)
• Naturally elevated in some groundwater (especially arid regions)

What to Do About Fluoride in Dartmouth Water

1. Reverse osmosis removes 90%+ of fluoride
2. Activated alumina filters are effective for fluoride
3. Bone char carbon can reduce fluoride
4. Standard activated carbon filters do NOT remove fluoride

Look for filters certified under NSF 58 for fluoride removal.

Related

• Fluoride — National Overview
• Massachusetts Water Quality
• Dartmouth Water Quality
• Check Your ZIP Code