Cost-savings of community water fluoridation program; Kerman, Iran, 2016

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Oral diseases are very important because they impose economic and social burden on societies. Given the resource scarcity, it is necessary to devise cost-effective and scientific strategies to prevent and control oral diseases. This study aimed to estimate the potential cost-savings for dental caries treatment associated with Community Water Fluoridation Program (CWFP) in Kerman, Iran. METHODS: An economic model to compare the costs of CWFP with treatment savings achieved through averted tooth decay was developed. Direct cost of prevented caries was taken equal to treatment savings. Implementation cost and the associated savings was estimated for Kerman in 2016. We obtained required data and parameters for costs and savings estimation through published documents and other sources. RESULTS: Annual cost-savings associated with implementing the water fluoridation in Kerman was estimated about $11160415.5 to $44350544.11. About $34.9 to $136 could be achieved per each dollar spent. Annual cost and benefit per capita was $0.66 and $23.4-$91.09 respectively. Net benefit per capita was $22.7 to $90.4. CONCLUSION: This study indicates significant annual savings from CWFP; additional savings could be achieved if this program is implemented in other regions. We could also receive even more if this program is integrated with other public oral health programs such as screening school children, community dentistry and oral health education.