Does fluoride really help in preventing cavities?
(Back to Top) Initial studies showed a 60% reduction in caries in fluoridated communities (communities which had appropriately adjusted fluoride to the water source). More recently, the benefit appears to be 30-40%. The difference may be attributed to use of fluoridated toothpaste and the prevalence of fluoridated water in packaged foods and beverages. Preventable oral diseases afflict the majority of California s underserved children. Children from low-income and minority backgrounds bear most of the unnecessary burden of pain, suffering, and compromised dental health. Fifty-five percent of all California children have untreated tooth decay. Among racial and ethnic minorities, 66% of 6-8 year-old Hispanic children, 60% of Black children, and 71% of Asian children have untreated decay. Twenty-seven percent of California preschool children have untreated tooth decay and 9% are in need of urgent dental treatment. Tooth decay begins when children are less than 1 year old, and almost all o
