Fewer people across Queensland will receive fluoride in drinking water supplies, as another council announces it will axe its program, citing freedom of choice and costs.
The Australian Dental Association says fluoride in drinking water is a cost-effective way to minimise dental decay
The Central Highlands Regional Council voted this week to stop adding fluoride to all five of its water treatment plants in Emerald, Blackwater, Sapphire and Tieri. The Australian Dental Association has long been calling for the Queensland Government to mandate statewide access to fluoride, arguing it would reduce the cost of dental care for private patients, as well as for the public health system.Queensland branch vice-president Kelly Hennessy said fluoride reduced dental decay in adults by up to 25 per cent and in children by about 44 per cent.
She said about 90 per cent of Australians drink water with added fluoride, compared to 72 per cent of Queenslanders. "I believe that supplying communities with fluoridated water is the responsible thing to do, and I would encourage every local government to do so." But in 2012, the Queensland LNP Government amended legislation, giving councils the choice as to whether or not they added the chemical.But Mr Hoolihan said the Central Highlands Council decided to stop adding it after finishing a new water security strategy, and looking at ways to make its water treatment process more sustainable.
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