Water fluoridation: quick facts

• Water fluoridation helps protect teeth against decay in people of all ages, from very young children to the elderly.
• By reducing tooth decay, water fluoridation saves individuals and families money on dental treatment. It also means less time away from school and work because of tooth pain and dental treatment.
• Most Australians have had the benefit of water fluoridation for 30–50 years.
• You cannot taste or smell fluoride in your water.
• Water fluoridation is a safe way to help protect teeth against decay and is supported by leading national and international health organisations.
• The overall weight of scientific evidence does not link water fluoridation with side effects such as cancer, bone fractures, Alzheimer’s disease or allergy.
• Mottling of tooth enamel can occur if young children get too much fluoride (dental fluorosis). It is generally barely noticeable, and also occurs in areas without water fluoridation. By using fluoridated toothpaste carefully the chances of dental fluorosis can be reduced without denying anybody the benefits of water fluoridation (see Other ways to protect your teeth).
• The amount of fluoride added to the water is carefully controlled and monitored.
• Water fluoridation is the most effective way to give everybody access to the benefits of fluoride regardless of age, income or education level.

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