Water fluoridation continues to get a clean bill of health after 50 years

Ireland’s water has been fluoridated for 50 years. That’s time enough for improvements in oral health and to show there have been no documented medical side effects.

In parallel, the population has benefited from improved oral health services, fluoridated toothpastes, and better nutrition. As a consequence, a decision was made, after scientific review, to reduce the level of fluoride in the water supply, as in other countries. This is in recognition of these other sources of fluoride and to minimise the flecking of teeth, which can occur when small children eat fluoridated toothpaste while living in fluoride areas.

The benefits of fluoridation are not inconsiderable in terms of costs. Consequent improvements in oral health benefit the health service by reducing the cost burden of dental disease and its management, and by reducing absenteeism at work/school.