Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water, soil, plants and some foods. It is recognised globally as one of the most important ways of preventing and limiting tooth decay. In 2008, the Queensland Government introduced mandatory fluoridation across the state.
However, in 2012, local councils were given the ability to opt out of water fluoridation.
While 90 per cent of Australians can now access fluoridated water, only 72 per cent of Queenslanders can – most in the south-east corner.
AMA Queensland is calling on the state government to mandate fluoridation in our water supplies.
Some patients may have concerns about its safety or effectiveness. This guide aims to assist medical professionals in reassuring patients by addressing common concerns, explaining the benefits, and providing evidence-based information about fluoride.
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What is Fluoride?A naturally occurring mineral found in water, soil, plants, and some foods. Added to dental products and water supplies to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay. |
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The Importance of Fluoride in Oral HealthFluoride helps prevent cavities by strengthening tooth enamel and reducing the acid impact caused by bacteria. It promotes the rebuilding of enamel, making it more resistant to future decay. Community water fluoridation is shown to reduce tooth decay across all age groups. |
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Is it safe?Extensive research shows no consistent evidence linking fluoride at recommended levels to serious health conditions. The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) strongly recommends community water fluoridation as a safe, effective and ethical way to help reduce tooth decay across the population. The NHMRC supports Australian states and territories fluoridating their drinking water supplies within the range of 0.6 to 1.1 ppm/milligrams per litre(mg/L). Infant formula products sold in Australia are safe to be fed to infants when made up with drinking water fluoridated at the levels used in Australia. When pregnant and breastfeeding mothers drink water fluoridated at Australian levels, it is safe for the unborn child or infant. Breast milk naturally contains about 5–10 micrograms (μg) of fluoride per litre of milk. The level of fluoride in breast milk remains steady when a nursing mother drinks fluoridated water. |
One in 10 Queenslanders do not have enough functional teeth to chew on food.
AMA Queensland is calling on all local councils to fluoridate their water supplies.
“Evidence is clear and compelling. We should not be having this discussion.”
– AMA Queensland President Dr Nick Yim.