Fluoride Levels Temporarily Reduced in Maryland Counties

Supply chain issues linked to Middle East conflict impact drinking water for 2 million customers.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 8:34pm

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A highly detailed, translucent X-ray photograph showing the intricate molecular structure of a water treatment chemical, appearing as glowing lines and shapes against a dark background.A ghostly X-ray image reveals the molecular structure of the chemical compound used to fluoridate drinking water, highlighting the fragility of the supply chain.Montgomery Village Today

WSSC Water, the utility serving nearly 2 million customers in Montgomery and Prince George's counties in Maryland, is temporarily reducing the level of fluoride added to the drinking water due to 'nationwide supply challenges linked in part to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.' Starting Wednesday, fluoride levels will go down from approximately .7 milligrams per liter to .4 milligrams per liter.

Why it matters

Fluoride is recommended by health organizations to help strengthen teeth and prevent cavities, so this temporary reduction could impact dental health for residents in the affected counties. The issue highlights the potential vulnerabilities in the supply chain for essential water treatment chemicals.

The details

WSSC Water said one major supplier of hydrofluorosilicic acid, the compound used to fluoridate water, is based in Israel and has experienced 'significant operational impacts' in recent months. The utility emphasized this is a temporary adjustment driven solely by supply availability and that they remain committed to maintaining safe, high-quality drinking water.

  • Starting Wednesday, April 8, 2026, fluoride levels will be reduced.

The players

WSSC Water

The utility that provides drinking water to nearly 2 million customers in Montgomery and Prince George's counties in Maryland.

Ben Thompson

Director of Production at WSSC Water.

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What they’re saying

“This is a temporary adjustment driven solely by supply availability. We remain committed to maintaining safe, high-quality drinking water and will restore optimal fluoride levels as soon as supply conditions stabilize.”

— Ben Thompson, Director of Production, WSSC Water

What’s next

WSSC Water did not provide a specific timeline for when normal fluoride levels would be restored, stating they will do so 'as soon as supply conditions stabilize'.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the potential vulnerabilities in the supply chain for essential water treatment chemicals and the importance of water utilities having contingency plans to maintain safe drinking water during disruptions.