Community water fluoridation most effectively achieves which of the following reductions in caries?

Community water fluoridation is known to have distinct effects on various types of dental caries. Among the given options, the statement that community water fluoridation reduces smooth surface caries more than pit and fissures is accurate.

This is because fluoride acts topically and is particularly effective on smooth surfaces where saliva can readily deliver fluoride ions. It enhances the remineralization process, making the enamel more resistant to acid attacks that cause cavities. While fluoride also assists in reducing pit and fissure caries, the reduction is often seen to be more pronounced on smooth surfaces. This phenomenon is attributed to the way fluoride interacts with the enamel and its effectiveness in areas that receive better contact with saliva and fluoride from drinking water.

In contrast, pit and fissure surfaces tend to be more challenging due to their anatomy, which can make it harder for fluoride to access and be effective in those areas compared to sustained exposure from drinking fluoridated water affecting smooth surfaces.