Moreover, no credible scientific evidence supports an association between fluoridated water and conditions such as cancer, bone fracture, Down's syndrome, or heart disease as claimed by some opponents of water fluoridation. Community water fluoridation is presently the most cost-effective method for preventing tooth decay. Despite a decrease in overall decay rates during the past two decades, tooth decay is still a significant oral health problem, especially in certain segments of the population. People of low socioeconomic status suffer from a disproportionate burden of tooth decay. They also have less access than those with higher incomes to professional oral health services and other sources of fluoride, like gels and tablets.
Water fluoridation helps reduce such oral health disparities.