The Cost-Effectiveness of Fluoridating Water Supplies in New ZealandA Report for the New Zealand Ministry of Health
Date of publication: November 1999
Introduction
Fluoridation of water supplies began in New Zealand in 1954. By 1999, fluoridated water supplies were serving an estimated 57% of the population. The locations of these fluoridated water supplies are shown in Appendix 1. Over the last two decades or so, there has been a dramatic reduction in the magnitude of tooth decay in both the deciduous and permanent teeth of New Zealand children in all areas, and the difference in caries rates between fluoridated and non-fluoridated areas has narrowed.
The reduction in dental caries is attributable to widespread use of fluoride-containing toothpaste, as well as to the direct effect of receiving water from a fluoridated supply. In addition, the so-called “halo effect”, where foods and beverages made from fluoridated water are consumed in non-fluoridated areas, has probably played a role in reducing the differences between fluoridated and non-fluoridated areas.
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