Tooth decay remains the most widespread chronic and irreversible disease in New Zealand, but 6-7% of all children and adults use a non-fluoride toothpaste.
Experts have voiced concerns about the uptake of a recent Canadian study, in which water fluoridation was associated with slightly lower IQs in children.
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Community water fluoridation is a cost-effective public health measure that can reduce cavities by approximately 25 per cent. Yet some communities are worried about it.
Every year councils around Australia compete to prove they have the best-tasting tap water in the country.
Adding fluoride to tap water to prevent tooth decay is one of our greatest public health achievements. Yet, myths persist about whether it’s safe and works.
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When not being forced to waste their time and formidable expertise researching furphies like wind turbine syndrome or homeopathy, the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) can get on with…
Despite only finding an association between fluoridated water and underactive thyroid gland, the paper says we should try to reduce all sources of fluoride in the environment.
Joost Nelissen/Flickr
Toothaches and root canals loom large in the collective memory and the whine of a dentist’s drill conjures unpleasant memories for most. Tooth decay and cavities most commonly affect the enamel that protects…
Good teeth often correlates with good health. But one in five over-65s have lost all their teeth.
m01229/Flickr
An Aussie smile is an instant indicator of socioeconomic status, employability and self-esteem. It’s also a predictor of physical health. So it’s shocking that Australians’ dental health has not improved…
The burden of pain and discomfort, disfigurement and disability from dental decay is very large in Australia.
Pete Simon
Mandatory water fluoridation introduced by the former Queensland government is being rolled back by some local councils, which have been given the power to decide whether to continue with the public health…
Fluoridated water protects against the tooth decay from acid produced by bacteria in the mouth.
T. Faltings
The most effective way to prevent tooth decay is delivered to most Australian homes every day through their water pipes. It is, of course, fluoride distributed via the water supply. Dental decay occurs…