Fluoridation

Thirty years have elapsed since the classical observations of Dean called attention to the probable role of fluorine in the prevention of dental caries.^1,2 During ensuing years the relationship between ingested fluoride and the incidence of caries has been studied in many communities and in many well-controlled experiments. More evidence has been adduced to establish the fact that controlled amounts of fluoride in public water supplies are beneficial in lowering the caries rate than was ever assembled in behalf of the lowly toothbrush. Many major organizations have endorsed fluoridation of community water in areas where the natural content is low. These organizations include the World Health Organization, the United States Public Health Service, the American Medical Association, the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Society of Dentistry for Children, and the editors of the American Journal of Diseases of Children.³ It is gratifying to