Media release from Ministry of Health

The New Plymouth district can expect higher levels of dental decay following the decision to drop fluoride from local drinking water.

The Ministry of Health says the decision will cost taxpayers and individuals more.

"Unfortunately the legacy will be one of increased tooth decay, especially for the most vulnerable in the community." 

Fluoridation of water supplies is supported by respected authorities including the World Health Organisation says Chief Dental Officer Dr Robyn Haisman-Welsh.

Water fluoridation is a safe, effective and affordable way to prevent and reduce tooth decay within communities.

Most tooth decay is preventable and water fluoridation is a simple way to help prevent it. Fluoride in the water supply acts like a constant 'repair kit' for teeth. One of the great advantages of water fluoridation is that everybody with natural teeth can benefit from the protective effect of fluoride without having to make a conscious effort. 

"We know from the recent 2009 New Zealand Oral Health Survey that tooth decay is a real and widespread problem in New Zealand. However the Survey also showed that people living in fluoridated areas had, on average, significantly fewer teeth affected by decay than those in unfluoridated areas - across all age groups".

"I do have some sympathy for the Councillors," says Dr Haisman- Welsh, "They were faced with a barrage of information from a vocal minority of opponents of fluoridation."

"I understand that there are concerns from some members of the community about the safety and benefits of water fluoridation. The Ministry regularly reviews international scientific research on fluoridation to make sure its position is based on evidence, is consistent with best practice and is appropriate for the New Zealand context. Our considered view, based on this wide body of credible evidence, is that water fluoridated at the optimum level is a safe way to help prevent and reduce tooth decay."

We have funded an independent scientific consortium to get clear unbiased advice about water fluoridation however it is very difficult to get balance on this issue and a true understanding of the local feelings in light of the overwhelming presence of out of town submitters and representatives of the America not for profit organisation Fluoride Action Network (FAN).

Ultimately the result was deeply disappointing.