Is Murfreesboro Water Fluoridated? A Practical Guide to Fluoride for Kids and Adults

Fluoride often gets labeled as “something for kids,” but that’s only part of the story.

Yes, fluoride helps protect children’s developing teeth — but many adults should rely on fluoride just as much, especially when medical conditions, medications, or dental history increase their risk for decay.

If you live in Murfreesboro and have ever wondered whether your water contains fluoride — or whether you personally need more protection — this guide is for you.

Quick Answer: Is Murfreesboro Water Fluoridated?

Yes. Murfreesboro’s public drinking water is fluoridated at levels recommended to help prevent tooth decay (target level: approximately 0.7 parts per million according to Murfreesboro Water Resources Department and Consolidated Utility District).

Fluoridated water delivers low, consistent exposure to fluoride throughout the day, which helps strengthen enamel and repair early damage before cavities form.

That benefit applies to children, teens, adults, and seniors alike.

What Fluoride Actually Does (At Any Age)

Fluoride:

• Strengthens tooth enamel

• Helps repair early “soft spots” before cavities develop

• Makes teeth more resistant to acid from food, drinks, and bacteria

As we age, many people actually benefit from more fluoride, not less.

Fluoride Isn’t Just for Kids — Many Adults Need It

1. Patients Undergoing Head & Neck Radiation

Radiation therapy for head and neck cancer often damages salivary glands, causing severe, long-term dry mouth (xerostomia).

Saliva is critical for:

• Neutralizing acids

• Washing away bacteria

• Naturally repairing enamel

Without adequate saliva, cavities can develop very rapidly, even in people who never had decay before.

➡️ Daily fluoride exposure is essential for protecting teeth during and after radiation therapy. Sometimes it is necessary to use custom-molded trays to hold prescription-strength fluoride gels around the teeth for longer periods of time.

2. People Taking Medications That Cause Dry Mouth

Many commonly prescribed medications reduce saliva flow, including:

• Certain blood pressure medications

• Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications

• Allergy medications

• Muscle relaxers and sleep aids

Dry mouth increases cavity risk dramatically — especially along the gumline and between teeth.

Fluoride helps compensate for the loss of saliva’s protective effects.

3. Medical Conditions That Cause Dry Mouth (Like Sjögren’s Syndrome)

Autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome can cause chronic dry mouth that doesn’t improve with hydration alone.

In these cases:

• Cavities can progress quickly

• Root surfaces are especially vulnerable

• Fluoride becomes a long-term preventive necessity, not an optional add-on

4. Adults With Gum Recession or Exposed Root Surfaces

As gums recede:

• The softer root surface becomes exposed

• Roots decay more easily than enamel

• Cavities often develop near the gumline

Fluoride helps harden these vulnerable areas and reduce sensitivity at the same time.

5. Adults With Multiple Fillings, Crowns, or Bridges

If you have a history of dental work:

• Old restorations can develop decay around their edges

• Crowns and fillings don’t “get cavities,” but the tooth underneath still can

Fluoride helps protect these high-risk areas and extend the life of existing dental work.

What If You Drink Mostly Bottled or Filtered Water?

Many families — and adults — unintentionally reduce fluoride exposure by drinking:

• Bottled water

• Reverse osmosis water

• Filtered refrigerator or pitcher water

Most bottled waters do not contain fluoride, and many filters remove it.

That doesn’t mean fluoride is off the table — it just means it may need to come from:

• Fluoride toothpaste

• Over-the-counter fluoride rinses

• Professional fluoride treatments

• Prescription-strength fluoride products (for higher-risk patients) with custom-fitted trays

Myth vs. Fact

Myth: Fluoride is only for children
Fact: Adults with dry mouth, gum recession, restorations, or medical conditions often benefit more than kids.

Myth: If I brush well, I don’t need fluoride
Fact: Brushing removes plaque — fluoride strengthens the tooth structure itself. They work together.

Myth: Fluoride is unnecessary once teeth are “fully grown”
Fact: Teeth are constantly under attack from acids. Fluoride helps repair daily damage at any age.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is fluoride safe for adults?

Yes. When used at recommended levels, fluoride is safe and effective for preventing tooth decay across the lifespan.

Do I need fluoride if I’ve never had cavities?

Possibly — especially if you:

• Take medications that cause dry mouth

• Have gum recession

• Have multiple restorations

• Are undergoing medical treatments that affect saliva

Risk can change over time, even if your past dental history was excellent.

Should I be using a special fluoride toothpaste?

Some patients benefit from:

• Higher-fluoride toothpaste

• Prescription fluoride gels or rinses

• Customized fluoride plans based on risk

Your dentist can help determine what’s appropriate — and what’s unnecessary.

The Bottom Line for Murfreesboro Patients

Fluoride isn’t about age — it’s about risk.

Children, teens, adults, and seniors all benefit from fluoride when:

• Saliva flow is reduced

• Teeth are exposed or restored

• Medical conditions increase decay risk

📍 Local water fluoridation helps, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle.

At your next visit, feel free to ask:

“Am I getting enough fluoride for my situation?”

We’re always happy to help you make an informed, personalized decision — no pressure, no one-size-fits-all advice, just what’s best for your smile.