La. Admin. Code tit. 48 § V-1303

Current through Register Vol. 50, No. 9, September 20, 2024

Section V-1303 - Background and Purpose

A. The fluoridation of community water supplies is the most effective mechanism for preventing dental caries. It is the only means whereby people of all ages in an area can be reached from birth and at a low cost. This has added significance for the many people who are dentally indigent.

B. The benefits of community fluoridation in maintaining dental health are substantial.

1. Persons drinking water which contains fluoride within the optimal fluoride level/range have teeth which are more caries resistant.

2. The caries rate among children drinking water which contains fluoride within the optimal fluoride level/range can be as much as two-thirds less than among children drinking fluoride deficient water.

3. By the time that children reach their teens, about six times as many residing in communities which have their community water supply meet the optimal fluoride level/range are completely free of caries as their counterparts in fluoride deficient areas.

4. When the optimal fluoride level/range in a community water system is maintained, extractions of permanent teeth caused by premature loss of primary teeth can be prevented. In addition, crooked and overlapping permanent teeth caused by premature loss of primary teeth can be prevented.

5. Adults consuming water which contains fluoride within the optimal fluoride level/range throughout life can expect fewer tooth extractions due to caries and are less likely to become edentulous (lose all their natural teeth) in later years.

C. Community fluoridation of drinking water produces economies in children's dental care in terms of both cost and treatment time. The cost benefit ratio has been estimated to be 1:38. Children receiving the benefits of fluoridation in their drinking water require fewer dental treatment services and the treatment that is required is less complex and, therefore, less costly and less time consuming to provide. The costs of children's dental care in fluoridated areas can be less than one-half the cost in fluoride deficient areas.

La. Admin. Code tit. 48, § V-1303

Promulgated by the Department of Health and Human Resources, Office of Preventive and Public Health Services, LR 13:246 (April 1987), amended by the Department of Health and Hospitals, Office of Public Health, LR 36:70 (January 2010).

AUTHORITY NOTE: Promulgated in accordance with 45 CFR Parts 16, 76 and 96; P.L. 97-35, Section 901; 42 USC 2476, and R.S. 40:5.11(G).