Positive statement from chief medical officers on water fluoridation

The statement from the CMOs said, “On balance, there is strong scientific evidence that water fluoridation is an effective public health intervention for reducing the prevalence of tooth decay and improving dental health equality across the UK. It should be seen as a complementary strategy, not a substitute for other effective methods of increasing fluoride use.”

Barry Cockcroft CBE, chair of the BFS, commented, “We welcome this important statement. It confirms that water fluoridation schemes are safe and effective and that they have a positive impact on tackling completely avoidable oral health inequalities in children and adults across the UK.

“We have been campaigning on this issue for many years and it is great to see it back on the table. Community water fluoridation schemes positively benefit all ages, both children and the increasing number of older people retaining their teeth into later life.