Fluoridation of water supplies as a public health measure to reduce dental decay

Responsible department: Department of Health

Fluoridaton of water supplies to a level of one part per million has been shown to reduce dental decay significantly. This will reduce treatment needs and eventually reduce treatment costs. More importantly the fluoridation of water supplies gives "poor children rich children's teeth".

This is a cost effective and safe public health measure already introduced in some areas. In these areas decay rates are significantly lower than non-fluoridated areas.