COMMUNITY WATER FLUORIDATION
Te Ao Mārama members continue their support for fluoridation of reticulated water supplies, to optimal levels and also support the use of fluoride-containing dental materials and products.
Have you been asked about fluoride?
Here are some quick facts to keep in mind
THE ORAL HEALTH OF THOSE WHO HAVE FLUORIDATED WATER IS SIGNIFICANTLY BETTER
- When compared with those who are living in non fluoridated areas. A recent New Zealand survey shows that non-fluoridated areas experienced 60% more tooth decay than those in fluoridated areas.
LOW LEVELS OF FLUORIDE ADDED TO WATER HAVE BEEN PROVEN SAFE AND EFFECTIVE
- The recommended level, 0.7-1.0 parts-per-million, is the equivalent of putting one teaspoon into an entire bathtub of water! To ingest toxic levels of fluoride you would need to drink several thousand glasses of water at once.
Fluoride Occurs Naturally In Many Water Supplies
Topping the levels up so it benefits community oral health is safe and cost effective. Water fluoridation doesn’t diminish the “mauri” of water, because it improves the health and wellbeing for all.
Fluoridation Reduces Decayed, Missing Or Filled Teeth
By between 58,000 and 267,000 in New Zealand each year.
Each Damaged Tooth Costs At Least $130 To Treat
That’s the cost of a single filling. If you compare this to the miniscule cost of 50c per person per year to fluoridate the water supply it is very clear that the benefits far outweigh the costs.
Fluoride Is A Critical Part Of Keeping Your Teeth Healthy
That’s along with brushing, flossing, a healthy lifestyle and dental care. Water fluoridation improves the oral health of all people, whether you brush your teeth or not.
Fluoride Products Used In New Zealand Are Required To Meet Quality And Safety Standards
The Standard for the Supply of Fluoride for Use in Water Treatment published by the New Zealand Water & Wastes Association outlines these standards
The Fluoride Derived From Fluorosilicates Is Exactly The Same
It’s the same as the fluoride which is present in calcium fluoride and sodium fluoride when these substances dissolve in water.