Fluoride has been restored to Conway’s drinking water following a temporary interruption caused by a global shortage of hydrofluorosilicic acid, the compound used in the water fluoridation process.
With our supply restored, Conway Corp has resumed adding fluoride at levels established by the Arkansas Department of Health.
Why Was Fluoride Temporarily Unavailable?
The interruption was caused by a global shortage of hydrofluorosilicic acid resulting from disruptions in international production and shipping.
Throughout the shortage, we remained in regular contact with our supplier while awaiting a scheduled shipment. Once the necessary supply became available, we resumed fluoridation.
Was Conway’s Water Safe During the Interruption?
Yes. Conway’s drinking water remained safe throughout the temporary interruption.
Fluoride is added to drinking water to help prevent cavities and tooth decay, but it is not required for water treatment or disinfection. The temporary absence of added fluoride did not affect the safety of Conway’s drinking water, and customers did not need to boil their water or switch to bottled water.
Why Does Conway Corp Add Fluoride?
Fluoridation is required for larger public water systems in Arkansas.
Under Arkansas Code § 20-7-136, public water systems serving 5,000 or more people are required by state law to add fluoride to drinking water and maintain fluoride levels established by the Arkansas Department of Health. The requirement was originally passed in 2011 as Act 197.
Fluoride is added to drinking water as a public health measure to help prevent cavities and tooth decay.
What Happens Next?
Conway Corp will continue monitoring our fluoride supply and working with our supplier to prepare for potential future disruptions.
For customers, no action is needed. Fluoride has been restored, and Conway’s drinking water continues to be safe to drink and use as normal.
Customers can stay informed by visiting ConwayCorp.com or following Conway Corp on social media for updates.