Scientists reaffirm the safety of water fluoridation

New Zealand's most eminent scientists reaffirm the safety and efficacy of community water fluoridation

The NZ Dental Association strongly supports the findings of the review of the scientific evidence into the health effects of water fluoridation.

The NZDA welcomes the report "Health effects of water fluoridation: a review of the scientific evidence" published today on behalf of the Royal Society of New Zealand and the Office of the Prime Minister's Chief Science Advisor.

"The report strongly reaffirms the NZDA's position that community water fluoridation is a safe, effective and cost efficient way of reducing dental caries and reducing health inequalities," says Dr David Crum, CEO of the NZDA.

Importantly, the report reassures Councils with established community water fluoridation schemes in New Zealand that water fluoridation poses no risks to public health, and has significant benefits for their communities. The report also highlights that Councils where community water fluoridation is yet to be introduced can confidently implement this important public health measure. The result will have a huge benefit, particularly for those living within communities who have high rates of tooth decay.

The report was written by a cross section of New Zealand's most eminent scientists who have researched the safety and efficacy of community water fluoridation using the most up to date evidence from within New Zealand and from around the world.

The Association supports the recent move by Local Government NZ in attempting to convince Central Government to modify legislation so that the Director General of Health makes the decision of whether to fluoridate the community's water supplies.

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