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Daily Brushing Saves Smiles & Cash
4 Apr
Summary
- Supervised daily brushing in schools is highly cost-effective.
- It prevents one tooth cavity over a lifetime per child.
- The program costs Rs 22,202 per quality-adjusted life year gained.
A simple, supervised toothbrushing program in Indian government schools has been identified as a remarkably cost-effective child health intervention. This initiative, requiring only five minutes of daily supervised brushing with fluoride toothpaste, can establish lifelong oral hygiene habits. Research indicates this strategy can prevent at least one tooth cavity per child over their lifetime.
The study estimates that the program would save Rs 153 for every cavity incidence averted. From a health economics perspective, this intervention delivers substantial health gains at a cost of Rs 22,202 per quality-adjusted life year gained, placing it firmly within India's cost-effective range.
This preventive approach is particularly significant for India's public health system, potentially reducing downstream costs associated with dental treatments. It offers a vital preventive care gap bridge for children, especially those from economically vulnerable households who often lack regular dental check-ups.
