Community water fluoridation is a safe, effective public health measure that inexpensively prevents dental caries. As of 1992, only 62% of the population on public water supplies were receiving fluoridated water. Progress will be reviewed in achieving the Healthy People 2010 target of 75% of the population on public water systems being served with fluoridated water. The 2000 Fluoridation Census results will be summarized. Current recommendations for use of fluoride in caries prevention will also be reviewed. Expansion of water fluoridation could lead to further reductions in dental caries in the United States while producing considerable savings in public and private resources.
Learning Objectives: 1. Describe the status of water fluoridation on state and national levels. 2. Discuss current recommendations regarding fluoride in caries prevention.
Keywords: Oral Health, Primary Prevention
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.