Barb Long

Plunket supports fluoridation of water. Water fluoridation also contributes to equity of health outcomes as the benefit of dental caries prevention is greater for those in low socioeconomic groups, Maori and children.

In addition, preventing dental caries leads to the prevention of pain and suffering and the need for hospital treatment of severe caries in many cases. It contributes to the prevention of dental abscesses and, uncommonly such serious infections as infective endocarditis in particular groups.

Barb Long, Otago and Southland Area Manager, Plunket