[Water fluoridation as a public health measure. A sociopolitical perspective]

This review provides a perspective on water fluoridation as a public health measure and the sociopolitical disputes preventing its implementation. Notwithstanding its world-wide recognition as a safe, efficient and cost-effective public health measure, water fluoridation has increasingly found itself in the sociopolitical arena. Factors responsible for preventing the implementation of water fluoridation include public sensitivity, anti-fluoridation campaigns, negative reporting by the media, public debates and lack of professional involvement. Successful implementation of water fluoridation can only be achieved by a purposeful national strategy, active communication and involvement by all concerned.