Fluoride saves money
Dear Editor,
The Nebraska State Board of Health strongly supports the fluoridation of public drinking water as the most cost-effective, equitable and safe means of providing protection from tooth decay in a community. Fluoridation in public drinking water has safely and effectively reduced tooth decay for community residents of all ages for over 50 years.
Research shows that for every $1 spent on fluoridation, $38 is saved on dental treatments. The Nebraska Legislature passed LB 245 this last year to provide fluoridation of drinking water in cities or villages with populations of one thousand or more residents by June 2, 2010. The bill included an "opt out" provision. As a result many Nebraska communities (61 of the eligible 64) will be voting on this important issue in November. It is important for all Nebraska communities that they understand the wording on their local ballot, and the State Board of Health encourages you to explain to your readers what a Yes vote means and what a No vote means. Credible science-based organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Dental Association are consistently uniform in recommending fluoridation of public drinking water.
The science is clear that adding fluoride saves money and can safely improve dental health for all Nebraskans.
Sincerely,
Linda L. Lazure,
PhD, RN
Chairperson
State Board of Health