Assessment of Methods of Fluoridation to Conclude Most Beneficial for Human Health and the Environment

Abstract

This thesis aims to critically assess the relative efficacy of various methods to provide fluoride treatment with respect to both reduction of tooth decay and environmental impact. Each method was scored against a number of criteria that fell under the three pillars of sustainability: Economic, Social, and Environmental. Each criteria was scored between 0 and 5, with 0 being the least and 5 being the highest. The results were plotted in the form of radar plots and the relative sustainability of each method compared by analyzing coverage. Results suggest that the municipal water method of fluoridation was the most sustainable and the bottled water method of fluoridation was the least sustainable. The combination of brushing regularly with toothpaste 1-3 times a day and using fluoride treatments as needed by dental professionals, along with drinking regularly from municipal water is the safest way to receive the oral benefits of fluoridation as well as protecting human health and the environment. These outcomes can be used to guide future public policy debate on fluoridation at the city, State and Federal level.