A review of fluoride policies in Chile looked at how well adding fluoride to water or milk prevents cavities. The researchers examined the effectiveness, safety, and cost of these programs. They found that fluoridation does reduce tooth decay, but the benefits are limited by public misinformation and inconsistent regulations.
The review did not include a specific number of participants or a direct comparison group. It was a narrative review, meaning it summarized existing research rather than conducting a new experiment. No details on side effects or long-term follow-up were reported.
Because the review is based on earlier studies and focuses on one country, the findings may not apply everywhere. The authors note that misinformation and regulatory gaps weaken the impact of these programs.
For policymakers and public health workers, the takeaway is that fluoride programs work but need better public education and consistent rules to be most effective.
