| Why
fluoridate milk?
Despite a general decline in the prevalence of dental decay
in recent years, levels of the disease continue to remain
unacceptably high in many parts of the world. The beneficial
effect of fluoride in preventing dental decay is well recognised,
and both water and salt have proved to be effective fluoride
vehicles. There are, however, many communities where — for
technical, political and / or economic reasons — these interventions
are not feasible or viable. Under such circumstances milk
can provide an alternative vehicle for the delivery of fluoride.
This has been demonstrated in a number of community based
schemes which to date have been established under "the
umbrella" of an international programme.
The case for this method of intervention is strengthened
by the following facts:
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The nutritional value of milk has been well documented. |
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Milk is often available to children through school and
nutritional programmes and the use of such distribution
systems can provide a convenient and cost-efficient vehicle.
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Virtually all forms of milk product are suitable for
fluoridation and the process is relatively simple. |
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Milk fluoridation can be targeted at those communities
in greatest need. |
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Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of fluoridated
milk in preventing dental disease.
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The biological
plausibility of fluoridated milk as a caries preventive
measure is established.
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