Media Release

14 September 2006

Ministry of Health Restates Its Position on Water Fluoridation

The Ministry of Health is urging Ashburton residents to support water fluoridation despite anti-fluoridation messages which have been distributed to households this week by an anti-fluoridation group.

The Ministry of Health's Chief Advisor of Oral Health Dr Robin Whyman says, "water fluoridation is a safe and cost effective way of reducing the burden of dental decay across the community."

"It assists all people with their own teeth, but has a greater effect in groups with high levels of disease, leading to a reduction in inequalities in oral disease across the community", says Dr Whyman.

"We know that drinking fluoridated water prevents tooth decay, as does limiting the frequency of sugary foods and drinks and brushing teeth twice a day with a toothpaste containing fluoride."

Dr Whyman says there is strong evidence that fluoride makes teeth more resistant to decay by strengthening the tooth surface, and interferes with the growth of the bacteria which causes cavities. Fluoride also helps to repair the early stages of tooth decay.

"We hope the telephone survey currently being conducted in Ashburton will see strong support for the need to fluoridate the water once again, after it was removed from Ashburton's water supplies in 2002."

Robin Whyman says the role of fluoride in water has been investigated not only in New Zealand but in many locations around the world. The findings show us time and again that children and adults living in fluoridated areas have less dental caries and those living in non-fluoridated areas.

"Ashburton residents need to weigh up all the evidence for and against fluoride to make an informed decision and the Ministry urges residents to support fluoridating Ashburton's water supply once again."

For further information on fluoride please see the Ministry of Health's website -

www.moh.govt.nz/fluoride

ENDS

For further information, please contact:
Victoria Evans
Media Advisor
Communications
DDI: 04 4962036
Mobile: 021802622
Fax: 04-496-2010