‘Fluoride in water reduces tooth decay’

CHILDREN living in regions where fluoride is added to the domestic water supply have lower levels of tooth decay than those who do not have fluoridation, according to the findings of a survey commissioned by the Department of Health and Children.

The Irish Dental Association (IDA) welcomed the findings of the report and took the opportunity to question what it termed “the department’s credibility on dental issues”.

Speaking at the launch of the study yesterday, Health Minister Mary Harney said that “there has been a major decline in dental caries levels amongst school children in Ireland since 1984 and decay levels are lower among children who get fluoride in their water supply than those who do not”.