The British Dental Association (BDA) is exploring the possibility of adding fluoride to drinking water in more areas of northern England. This consideration comes as the U.S. engages in a heated debate about the safety of fluoride in public water supplies.
BDA officials believe that increasing fluoride levels could significantly improve dental health across the region. Paul Woodhouse, a board member of the BDA, noted that while this initiative is not a “golden bullet,” it would provide a “better base start” for addressing dental health issues. However, similar to discussions in the U.S., there is opposition from groups like Fluoride Free Cumbria.
Currently, approximately 10% of England’s population receives fluoridated water. Of this group, 92% benefit from fluoridation schemes, while the remaining 8% receive naturally occurring fluoride from their water sources.
In the UK, water fluoridation is not implemented in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland. Each country’s government has the authority to decide on this matter independently. Although England has adopted fluoridation in some areas, the other regions have opted out, relying instead on naturally occurring fluoride.
In 2021, the chief medical officers for England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland supported the addition of fluoride to water supplies. This recommendation was based on estimates from Public Health England, which suggested that increased fluoride levels could reduce cavities by 17% among wealthier children and 28% among those from lower-income backgrounds.
As the BDA considers expanding fluoridation efforts in northern England, it aims to address dental health disparities and improve overall oral health in communities. The ongoing discussions reflect a broader trend towards evaluating public health measures aimed at combating tooth decay and promoting better dental hygiene practices across the UK.
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