Michael Gorey

Fluoride in the water supply has been a controversial issue in Australia. When some places have wanted to introduce it there has been all sorts of public outcry, mainly from conspiracy theorists who worry about the government tampering with water.

The fact remains however, that fluoride has been one of the most successful preventative public health measures of the last 100 years.

We’re discriminated against in country Victoria because our water supply isn’t fluoridated. Melbourne children receive the benefit, and consequently have fewer problems with their teeth.

Given the significance of oral hygiene as a health issue for children you would expect it to feature prominently in Alpine Shire Council’s draft Municipal Public Health Plan. It doesn’t rate a mention.

I found time tonight in this busy week to draft and send the following submission before tomorrow’s deadline on public comments:

I believe there’s little doubt that one of the biggest public health issues for children aged 3-13 is dental care and oral hygiene.

A discussion with my children’s dentist in Bright revealed her concern that our local water supply isn’t fluoridated. She has had severe cases in the North East region where children’s teeth have had to be extracted because of premature decay. This stress on the children, their families and the health system is preventable.

The best solution is fluoridation of the water supply, however this doesn’t appear to be an available option. Why?

The Municipal Public Health Plan should canvass this issue. It should detail the facts of the current situation to stimulate public debate.

My family has lived in this area for eight years and that recent discussion with the dentist was the first time I became aware that we don’t have fluoride in the water supply. It’s taken for granted that Melbourne people have the benefit of fluoride. Why are we treated differently?

In the absence of fluoridated water the dentist recommended fluoride tablets. She asked me as a parent what’s the best method to convey this information. I suggested the ideal time is at immunisation clinics.

Since that discussion I have undertaken some of my own research:

According to the United States Centre for Disease Control, every dollar spent on fluoridation saves up to $38 in treatment.

The Australian Dental Association, Victorian branch, states on its web site:

"Water fluoridation remains the cheapest, most effective and socially equitable measure of achieving a community-wide reduction in dental cases"; and

"There are fewer cavities and fillings in children living in fluoridated areas compared with non-fluoridated areas."

I see a role for Council to:

• Raise awareness about the need for children to take fluoride;
• Take a leadership role in dental health promotion (no other agency is likely to do this);
• Advocate for public funding of fluoridated water or the supply of fluoride tablets.

I look forward to seeing this issue incorporated into the final version of the MPHP.

These articles might be of interest:

• Health consultant not objective
• Fluoride and bottled water
• Dental visit not too bad