HOW COST-EFFECTIVE IS WATER FLUORIDATION?
Water fluoridation is the most cost-effective and socially equitable method of tooth decay prevention for all members of a community. Cost varies with the size of the population fluoridated, but averages about $1 per person per year according to American figures (Garcia, 1989). Therefore it is likely to cost less to provide a lifetime of fluoridation to an individual than it costs for a single dental filling. CONCLUSION: Water fluoridation is a safe, equitable, cost-effective public health initiative that responsible state and local governments should implement to reduce dental pain and disease throughout Australia.
