Public health focus: fluoridation of community water systems

Although fluoridation of community water is highly effective in reducing the occurrence of dental caries, the prevalence of dental caries remains high in the United States. For example, a survey of school-aged children during 1986-1987 indicated that 50% of those aged 5-17 years had caries in their permanent teeth, and among 17-year-olds, the prevalence of caries was 84% (1). In addition, among certain populations (e.g., rural and inner-city residents, children whose parents have less than a high school education, and some racial/ethnic minorities), the prevalence of dental caries among children ranges from 52% to 92%. This report summarizes information regarding the efficacy, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness of fluoridation of public water supplies in the United States.