Water fluoridation scheme expands in the northeast

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that protects teeth against decay. Natural levels of fluoride in water can be safely topped up to provide additional protection for teeth and reduce dental health inequalities, and decades of research show it is effective and safe.

Around half of the northeast already has fluoridated water, which is helping to reduce inequalities, including parts of County Durham, Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne. Health officials are today launching a public consultation on proposals to widen the scheme across the whole of the region to a further 1.6m people.

Chris Whitty, chief medical officer for England, said, “Water fluoridation can reduce the prevalence of tooth decay and improve dental health equity across the UK. It should be seen as a complementary strategy, not a substitute for other effective methods of increasing fluoride use such as tooth brushing.”