Say Yes to Fluoridation, not drill and fill

There is an enormous body of evidence and research over the last 50 years, which unequivocally proves, that fluoridating water supplies at optimal and safe levels will reduce dental disease by between 20 and 40% in our community.

"The Ministry of Health would not be promoting fluoridation of reticulated water supplies, if it did not think it was safe to do so," said Dr Loek Henneveld, Medical Officer of Health for Northland.

"Fluoridation of reticulated water supplies is the single most effective public health measure to prevent tooth decay, and will significantly improve oral health over a lifetime for children, adolescents, adults and older people."

Northland DHB funds a variety of oral health initiatives which include; oral health teams promoting the importance of good oral health hygiene, teaching good toothbrushing techniques with adult strength fluoride toothpaste and promoting better nutrition by encouraging our communities to make healthier food and drink choices. 

There are also a number of other health care providers in the primary care sector focusing on improving general well being and nutrition that may also have a positive effect on the level of dental decay.  Many Maori health providers also have programmes which focus on improving the health status of the entire whanau.

"Good oral health care should be for life, but Northland children have one of the worst rates of dental decay in the country, nearly twice the national average.  Poor oral health results in pain, sleepless nights, infection and can seriously affect young people's self confidence, self esteem and their ability to learn or function in the classroom or at work", says Dr Johan Ackermann, an experienced community dentist who is currently acting as Clinical Director of Dental Services.

When asked about fluoridation and its impact, Dr Neil Croucher, Northland DHB Oral Health Advisor says that although we have some great community health programmes, none of these programmes will prevent dental decay in our communities as profoundly and widely as water fluoridation. We deal in cold hard facts, not opinions or abstracts. Research shows us that Fluoridation of reticulated water supplies is safe and it works."

Ends.

For further information, please contact:
Fleur King, Public Relations Manager
Northland District Health Board 
Phone (09) 430 4101 ext 3315