PHE: Fluoride in tap water boosts dental health

There are "significant benefits" to water fluoridation schemes, which reduce the chance of tooth decay and improve wider dental health, a report from Public Health England (PHE) has suggested today (March 26th).

Early in the 20th century, it was noted there were lower levels of tooth decay in areas with higher levels of fluoride in the drinking water.

Initiatives have been put in place over the last 50 years to mimic this effect across the country and currently, 14 of the 152 local authorities are engaged in water fluoridation schemes – encompassing six million people. 

The PHE analysed the dental health of five-year-olds with baby teeth and 12-year-olds who had developed their adult teeth in both fluoridated and non-fluoridated areas.

According to the study, an average of 15 per cent fewer five-year-olds experienced tooth decay in fluoridated areas, with this figure rising to 28 per cent when deprivation and ethnicity are factored into the results.

Furthermore, 11 per cent fewer 12-year-olds registered tooth decay, or 21 per cent when the aforementioned factors are taken into account.

Professor John Newton, chief knowledge officer at PHE, said: "There is a good deal of speculation about water fluoridation schemes. This report provides new data which is direct evidence of the safety and efficacy of water fluoridation in England."