Why put fluoride in the water instead of just providing fluoride supplements to kids?
While it is true that fluoridated water has been proven to be the most effective measure to prevent tooth decay in small children, its benefits go beyond the youngest members of the population. In the senior population, for example, fluoridated water cuts root decay by 60%, compared to 20-30% in children. Fluoride helps people of all ages, from toddlers to senior citizens. Areas with fluoridated water report fewer dental problems and lower dental costs than areas without fluoridated water.