Community Water Fluoridation Gets an Upgrade

With the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noting community water fluoridation as one of the top 10 greatest public health achievements in the 20^th century, many regions would like to offer this caries-reducing approach to their residents. Cost, however, can be a stumbling block. Now a new and less expensive technique for fluoridating water is available. The sodium fluorosilicate tablet system—designed for smaller communities—uses the erosion of the tablets through a feeder to fluoridate water supplies. It is much less expensive than traditional water fluoridation systems. Contracted by the CDC, the new system was developed by KC Industries, and regional testing begins in July. The safety and efficacy of community water fluoridation have come into question over the past several years, leading some communities to cease water fluoridation programs altogether. Click here to read more.