Water Fluoridation Schemes

Dear constituent,

Thank you for contacting me about water fluoridation schemes in England. I appreciate there are strongly held views on both sides of this issue.

Fluoridation of water is the process of artificially adjusting the natural fluoride content of drinking water to tackle the incidence of tooth decay and reduce health inequalities. It is estimated that 5.8 million people in England receive fluoridated water. This means fluoride has been added to bring it up to around 1mg of fluoride per litre of water, which is a level found to reduce tooth decay.

The safety and efficacy of fluoridation has been under constant review since it was first proposed. Recent reviews of the scientific evidence published by authoritative bodies in England concur that fluoridated water confers significant dental health benefits. This view is supported by the British Dental Association, the Oral Health Foundation, the British Medical Association, and the World Health Organization.

While tooth decay can be prevented or minimised by adherence to a healthy diet and by regular toothbrushing and engaging with dental services, its prevalence remains higher among the most disadvantaged. Regular toothbrushing and attendance at the dentist are also less prevalent in poorer or more disadvantaged groups.

In September 2021, the four UK Chief Medical Officers published an independent report citing strong scientific evidence in support of water fluoridation schemes as an effective public health intervention. It found no credible scientific evidence that the levels of fluoride used in English schemes are harmful to health.

As you know, the Health and Care Bill will give powers to the Health Secretary to directly introduce, vary or terminate water fluoridation schemes across England. This responsibility currently lies with local authorities, who have reported difficulties with the current process. The Government said consultation with local populations will take place before any new water fluoridation schemes are introduced.

Thank you once again for contacting me about this issue. I will follow developments in this area closely.

Yours sincerely,

Peter Dowd MP