Cost Savings from Community Water Fluoridation in Colorado
Author Information
Author(s): Diane Brunson, Joan M O’Connell, Theresa Anselmo, Patrick W Sullivan
Primary Institution: Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment
Hypothesis
What are the cost savings associated with community water fluoridation programs in Colorado?
Conclusion
Colorado realizes significant annual savings from community water fluoridation programs, and additional savings could be achieved if more areas implemented these programs.
Supporting Evidence
- Colorado community water fluoridation programs saved an estimated $148.9 million annually in 2003.
- An average savings of $60.78 per person was calculated from existing fluoridation programs.
- Implementing fluoridation in 52 additional water systems could save an additional $46.6 million annually.
Takeaway
Fluoridating water helps save money on dental care because it prevents tooth decay, and many people could benefit if more places did it.
Methodology
An economic model was developed to compare costs of community water fluoridation programs with treatment savings from averted tooth decay, using data from 172 public water systems.
Potential Biases
The effectiveness of community water fluoridation may be underestimated due to the influence of other fluoride sources.
Limitations
The model's assumptions may not represent actual costs for specific water systems, and it does not account for productivity losses due to morbidity.
Participant Demographics
The analysis included data from public water systems serving populations of 1000 or more in Colorado.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
$115.1 million to $187.2 million
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