Fluoride has recently been added to Queensland's water system. What does this mean for my family?

The argument for Fluoride in water has been around for decades and there is a lot of inaccurate information on both sides. We hope that this can clear up some common misconceptions about fluoride and give insight into the benefits for individuals.

Common Myths and Facts about Fluoride:

  1. Fluoride causes arthritis

    Water fluoridation has been endorsed by Arthritis Australia, who released a statement stating 'There is no reputable scientific evidence that water fluoridation causes or worsens symptoms of Arthritis. Furthermore the incidence of arthritis is no different between fluoridated and non-fluoridated communities.'

  2. Fluoride causes cancer

    Scientific studies from around the world have failed to demonstrate a link between water fluoridation and any type of cancer. Cancer rates in non-fluoridated areas are no higher than in fluoridated areas.

  3. Water Fluoridation is banned in Europe

    In many European countries the large number of separate water sources used for drinking water makes water fluoridation impractical. No country has banned water fluoridation.

  4. Water Fluoridation is mass medication

    The World Health Organisation does not consider the addition of fluoride to drinking water to be 'mass medication', but simply adjusting the level of a substance already found naturally in the water to provide a substantial public health benefit.

Quick Facts:

  • A recent medical study found that children who live in fluoridated areas have 2.25 less decayed teeth per child. That means 225 less decayed teeth per 100 children.
  • More than 150 major health organizations including the World Health Organisation, the Australian Medical Association and the Australian Dental Association support water fluoridation.
  • Fluoride is a naturally occurring compound in water, plants, rocks, soil, air and foods.

For more information on water fluoridation, go to the following websites (from where this information was taken):

Queensland Health: www.health.qld.gov.au/fluoride
Australian Dental Association: www.ada.org.au
World Health Organisation: www.who.int/en