There is a lot of debate about adding fluoride to water supplies. As principal dentists for the Otago and Southland District Health Boards we support the vast majority of research that shows topping-up the amount of fluoride in a water supply reduces dental decay.

Research shows that fluoride naturally found in New Zealand's water supplies is not at a high enough level to be effective to prevent tooth decay. In order to gain oral health benefits it is therefore recommended that a safe level of fluoride is added to the water supply. Adding fluoride to water is recommended by the World Health Organisation and New Zealand's Ministry of Health as a means of reducing tooth decay.

Compared with national statistics, some communities within Southland and Otago have very poor oral health. Examples include preschoolers facing baby teeth fillings and extractions under anaesthesia, primary school students with multiple fillings and adults living with ongoing, chronic dental pain that may prevent them working.

The Otago and Southland District Health Boards have asked the Waitaki District, Southland District, Central Otago District and Clutha District councils to hold referenda about adding fluoride into the drinking water supplies of some communities.

People in these areas will be faced with a choice about adding fluoride to their local water supply when they receive their ballot paper for the local body elections. We respect people's right to make their own choice, however we hope that it is an informed choice. The content on this website offers a lot of information about fluoride and should answer any questions you have.

Specialist in paediatric dentistry

Otago District Health Board

Specialist in public health dentistry

Southland District Health Board