FLUORIDE IN WATER THE RIGHT DECISION

IT has been five years since two thirds of Queensland’s councils abandoned fluoridation, but the Gold Coast stands by its decision to push against the tide.

And studies have shown the sense in that decision.

Of the 77 councils that reconsidered fluoridation during the time of the Newman Government, just 26 chose to continue the scheme in which fluoride is added to the water supply to improve dental health.

In 2013 the Gold Coast City Council opted against filtering out the chemical from the South East Water Grid, which would have cost ratepayers up to $100 million.

The grid supplies more than 2.5 million people across the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Ipswich and the Sunshine Coast.

Fluoride was originally added in 2008.

Mayor Tom Tate says his council’s position on fluoride has not changed.

Councillor Dawn Crichlow, who was pro-fluoride and against moves to remove it from the water at the time, said the decision was a huge positive for health.

“I absolutely support it. I supported it then and support it now,” Cr Crichlow said.

“People wanted it. They used to come in and get fluoride tablets from the council for free before it was added in 2008. There has been no issue since.”

Australian Dental Association spokesman Dr Michael Foley said the decision was positive for oral health in the region.

“I think it is fabulous,” Dr Foley said.

While funding was still being sought for new oral health studies on the benefits, Dr Foley said the positives of fluoridation could be seen on the Gold Coast.

“Documenting the benefits of fluoridation can be a very slow process, but we have already seen it make a big difference,” Dr Foley said.