Water fluoridation is safe and cost effective, and the best way of delivering the benefits of fluoride to the greatest number of people.
Fluoridated water touches the teeth every time you have a drink or use water for cooking. This topical benefit is the main reason water fluoridation works so well.
Queensland Health recommendation: Fluoride supplements should not be used unless prescribed by a dental professional. Where the dental professional assesses an adult or child to be at high risk of tooth decay, fluoride supplements may be advised if the water supply is not fluoridated.
Fluoride tablets provide little protection to teeth if they are swallowed whole. For maximum benefit, fluoride tablets need to be in contact with the teeth for as much time as possible. This requires them to be dissolved in water, sucked or chewed.
An individual also needs to purchase the tablets, remember to take them every day and keep them out of reach of children. Water fluoridation overcomes all these problems.
Warning |
Having any tablets in the home can pose a risk to your family, especially children. If you choose to use fluoride tablets, make sure they are kept out of reach of children.
Water fluoridation is the most effective way of allowing all members of the community to receive its benefits, irrespective of age, income or education level. It requires the least effort, creates the least risk and provides the greatest oral health benefit.
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© The State of Queensland (Queensland Health) 2008.