Further research into the topic of Water Fluoridation has recently taken place. The research sought to find out if a lack of access to fluoridated water impacted oral health in children. When compared with children that did have access to fluoridated water, there were concerning findings.
Water Fluoridation is often considered a controversial subject, but research has consistently shown that its impact on children’s oral health is very positive.
The results of further research into the topic has recently been released, which looked at the oral health of children that have no access to fluoridated water [1].
Background
Water fluoridation refers to the action of adding a small concentration of Fluoride to the public water supply [2]. This is done as a means of protection from cavities, with research showing a strong connection between fluoridated water and less tooth decay [2].
Fluoride is a key ingredient in toothpaste. Therefore, by adding it in small concentrations to the public water supply, the intention is to assist in protecting teeth.
However, water fluoridation can be a controversial topic. For example, its use is banned in many countries, mainly due to concerns of potential over-exposure to fluoride, the ethics behind adding something to the public water supply and the lack of choice given to citizens [3].
Water fluoridation was first introduced in Australia in 1953 [4]. Given the size of Australia, not all parts of the nation have access to fluoridated water.
The Research
A team of researchers from La Trobe University carried out a new study. Subsequently, the findings were published in the Australian Journal of Rural Health [1].
The research involved looking at the state of Victoria – a vast state located in south-eastern Australia. They found that one-third of rural towns in the state that have populations of over 1,000 do not have access to fluoridated water [1].
The study involved looking at the oral health profiles of rural towns that did not have water fluoridation. Indicators like preventable hospitalisations due to dental conditions, tooth decay levels and filled or missing teeth were all noted [1].
Then, these levels were then compared with the state average of Victoria – whose large cities and towns nearly all have access to fluoridated water. The idea was to then compare the figures.
The results showed a clear disparity between the two data sets – with the authors noting a “significant” difference between non-fluoridated and fluoridated areas [1].
Overall, the main finding was that those in non-fluoridated areas had much higher than average preventable hospital admissions linked to oral health in children aged 0-9 years [1].
Additionally, more than 50% of children aged 0-12 living in these non-fluoridated towns had above average rates of decayed, missing and filled teeth. This percentage rose to 78% for children aged 0-5 [1].
This clearly shows that water fluoridation has a big impact. The above statistics show that children of all ages in non-fluoridated areas immediately have disadvantages in terms of their oral health in comparison to children in fluoridated areas.
The researchers found that this lack of water fluoridation meant that almost 150,000 residents across 203 towns were having their teeth impacted. Furthermore, children were impacted the most [1].
Author comments
The authors were concerned at these findings. Lead author Dr. Virginia Dickson-Swift discussed the findings. She urged officials to take action, saying that water fluoridation is “supported by overwhelming scientific evidence” [4].
Continuing, Dickson-Swift said that water fluoridation is “internationally recognized as one of the most successful public health interventions over the past 20 years, supported by groups like the World Health Organization and the Australian Dental Association” [4].
Moreover, Dickson-Swift also pointed out that water fluoridation is a “cost-effective and equitable initiative” [4]. The authors point out that for every dollar spent on fluoridation, $7-$18 is saved in avoidance of treatment costs [4].
Given the benefits involved, there is hope that local governments will advocate for improved access to water fluoridation. The statistics emanating from this study certainly show there is a clear disparity in oral health that should be addressed quickly.
Thinking points…
1) If you do have access to fluoridated water, this doesn’t mean you can neglect your oral health. While fluoridated water certainly assists with oral health, it can’t replace strong oral hygiene, which includes regular toothbrushing and flossing. Remember too to regularly visit a dental clinic for a check-up, as this will provide a dentist with the chance to review your oral health. We recommend that you book an appointment now!
2) Not everywhere has access to fluoridated water. You can always contact your local utility company for information on the public water supply, including information on if it is fluoridated or not. You may also share this article and these findings with anyone you know that has doubts about water fluoridation. Why not also discuss this article with your immediate family and friends, and see what you all think about the topic!
What we offer at Savanna Dental
Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.
It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.
We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals.
Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.
In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.
We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.
References
[1] Dickson-Swift, V., Crocombe, L., Bettiol, S., & Bracksley-O’Grady, S. (2023). Access to community water fluoridation in rural Victoria: It depends where you live…. The Australian Journal of Rural Health. (Pre-publication issue). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/ajr.12973.
[2] Iheozor-Ejiofor, Z., Worthington, H. V., Walsh T., O’Malley, L., Clarkson, J. E., Macey, R., Alam, R., Tugwell, P., Welch, V., & Glenny, A-M. (2015). Water fluoridation for the prevention of dental caries. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 18 (6): CD010856. DOI: https:/www.doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD010856.pub2.
[3] Generation95 Staff. (2021). Water Fluoridation Debate: Should Fluoride Be Added to Public Water?. Available: https://www.generation95.com/water-fluoridation-debate-should-fluoride-be-added-to-public-water/. Last accessed: 10th March 2023.
[4] La Trobe University. (2023). Lack of fluoride in rural areas impacting children. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-03-lack-fluoride-rural-areas-impacting.html. Last accessed: 10th March 2023.
