Ministry welcomes Stratford fluoride decision
Media release
The Ministry of Health welcomes the decision by Stratford District Council to retain fluoride in its water supply.
Chief Dental Officer Robyn Haisman-Welsh says water fluoridation is a safe, simple, and effective way to reduce tooth decay and improve oral health. “Water fluoridation provides protection against tooth decay to all residents irrespective of age, income or education level.”
Findings of the 2009 New Zealand Oral Health Survey show adults and children who lived in fluoridated areas have significantly better oral health, with an average of 2.5 fewer decayed, missing or filled teeth than those in non-fluoridated areas. Currently around 50% of New Zealanders receive fluoridated drinking water.
Dr Haisman-Welsh says it was great to see the majority of submissions to the Stratford District Council were in favour of retaining water fluoridation.
Oral health has improved significantly over the last 30 years, but we still have a significant problem with tooth decay. “Tooth decay causes pain, affects quality of life and is costly to treat. The Stratford District Council’s decision is to be commended as it will help to improve the oral health of its residents."
For further information:
Contact Ministry of Health,
Media Advisor
Anna Chalmers
04 496 2349 or 021 802 622
Related areas
Page last updated: 08 June 2012
Twitter
Facebook