Research from The University of Queensland has found no link between community water fluoridation and adverse effects on children’s brain development.
Professor Loc Do from UQ’s School of Dentistry said the study examined the difference between the brain development and function of children exposed to fluoridated water in early childhood and those who weren’t.
“We found emotional and behavioural development, and functions such as memory and self-control were at least equivalent to those who had no exposure to fluoridated water,” Professor Do said.
“In other words, there was no difference in child development and function related to fluoridated water.
“This finding shows that consuming water with fluoride at levels used for public supplies in Australia is safe. It supports continuing and expanding fluoridation programs.”
Approximately 90 per cent of the Australian population has access to fluoridated water. However, in Queensland, it is 71 per cent.
A fluoridation program does not cover many regional Queensland areas and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Water fluoridation important for children’s dental health
“A small but vocal group of people sometimes claims that water fluoridation can have adverse neurodevelopment effects, especially in young children,” Professor Do said.
“This concern can impact the community and public health support for the practice. Our research guarantees that it is safe and supports its expansion into more communities.
“This is an important message because fluoride is extremely effective in preventing tooth decay. Its use in water and toothpaste significantly improves child dental health in Australia.”
Dental caries (also known as tooth decay or dental cavities) is the most common chronic childhood disease worldwide, causing pain and infection and can lead to tooth extraction.
The UQ study followed up with child participants of Australia’s National Child Oral Health study 2012-2014, aged 12 to 17.
It measured their emotional and behavioural development using a Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Executive brain function was measured using the Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function. Both instruments are widely used in population health surveys.
The study was funded by a National Health and Medical Research Council Project grant. It is a collaboration between The University of Queensland, the University of Adelaide and the University of Western Australia in Australia. They also received support from the University of Bristol in the UK.
The study is published in the Journal of Dental Research.
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