Fluoridated water for cavity prevention: a review of the clinical-effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and guidelines

Murphy G, Cunningham J
Record ID 32011001269
English
Authors' recommendations: The studies identified showed that water fluoridation reduces the incidence of dental caries in adults and children. A relationship between level of fluoride in water and the prevalence of fluorosis was reported, with increasing prevalence as the fluoride concentration increases. No clear association could be detected between water fluoridation and fractures or cancer in the included systematic reviews. There is insufficient data to draw any conclusions regarding other adverse effects. The economic analyses indicated that water fluoridation may be cost saving from the payer or societal perspective. The one guideline that was identified endorsed the use of fluoride toothpaste, but did not make recommendations about water fluoridation. The information about benefits and harms that were identified, the limitations to the studies, as well as the economic information should be considered when making decisions about water fluoridation.
Details
Project Status: Completed
Year Published: 2009
English language abstract: An English language summary is available
Publication Type: Not Assigned
Country: Canada
MeSH Terms
  • Dental Caries
  • Water Supply
Contact
Organisation Name: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health
Contact Address: 600-865 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1S 5S8 Canada. Tel: +1 613 226 2553; Fax: +1 613 226 5392;
Contact Name: requests@cadth.ca
Contact Email: requests@cadth.ca
Copyright: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH)
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