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Dental Caries (Cavities): Community Water Fluoridation

CDC

An Evidence-Based Practice

Description

Community water fluoridation is the controlled adjustment of fluoride in a public water supply to help prevent tooth decay (i.e., dental caries or cavities) in the community.

Fluoride prevents tooth decay by preventing demineralization and enhancing remineralization of tooth enamel. Although fluoride occurs naturally in water across the U.S., it is usually lower than the optimal concentration needed to prevent dental caries.

Impact

The Community Preventive Services Task Force (CPSTF) recommends community water fluoridation to reduce tooth decay (i.e., dental caries or cavities).

Results / Accomplishments

Results from both the McDonough et al. review and the updated search for evidence showed a decrease in new dental caries after community water fluoridation began and an increase in new dental caries when it stopped.
-Combined evidence showed a median decrease of 15.2 percentage points in caries after community water fluoridation began (12 studies).
-Included studies showed that community water fluoridation reduced the prevalence of dental caries across socioeconomic groups.

About this Promising Practice

Primary Contact
The Community Guide
1600 Clifton Rd, NE
MS H21-8
Atlanta, GA 30329
(404) 498-1827
communityguide@cdc.gov
https://www.thecommunityguide.org/
Topics
Health / Oral Health
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