Fluoridated Water for Tooth Decay
(waterBEST Trial)
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify whether participants must stop taking their current medications. However, children using fluoride supplements are excluded from the study.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether participants must stop taking their current medications.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Fluoridated bottled drinking water for reducing tooth decay?
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Fluoridated bottled drinking water for reducing tooth decay?
Is fluoridated water safe for humans?
Is fluoridated water safe for humans?
How does fluoridated bottled drinking water differ from other treatments for tooth decay?
Fluoridated bottled drinking water is unique because it provides a consistent and controlled level of fluoride directly through daily water consumption, unlike other treatments that may require additional supplements or dental applications. This method helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel, while also reducing the risk of dental fluorosis compared to inconsistent fluoride levels in other bottled waters.12349
How does fluoridated bottled drinking water differ from other treatments for tooth decay?
Fluoridated bottled drinking water is unique because it provides a consistent and controlled level of fluoride directly through daily water consumption, unlike other treatments that may require additional supplements or dental applications. This method helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel, while also reducing the risk of dental fluorosis compared to inconsistent fluoride levels in other bottled waters.12349
What is the purpose of this trial?
The waterBEST study is a proof-of-concept, randomized, double-masked, placebo controlled, parallel group study evaluating dental caries-preventive effects of fluoridated bottled water compared to non-fluoridated bottled water in 4-year-old children.
Research Team
Gary Slade, BDSc, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for children aged 2 to 6 months who usually drink water or will by their first birthday. They must live in a primary residence with low fluoride tap water and not be on fluoride supplements. Children with very low birth weight, serious illnesses, or premature birth are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Children receive either fluoridated or non-fluoridated bottled water delivered to households
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Fluoridated bottled drinking water
- Non-fluoridated drinking water
Fluoridated bottled drinking water is already approved in United States, Canada, European Union for the following indications:
- Prevention of dental caries
- Prevention of tooth decay
- Prevention of dental caries
- Prevention of tooth decay
- Prevention of dental caries
- Prevention of tooth decay
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Lead Sponsor
Tulane University
Collaborator
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
Collaborator