Fluoride in the water

SIR – I am particularly interested in the debate over putting fluoride in the water supply (Leading Article, February 9) because, in the late 1940s in Michigan in the United States, I was one of the children involved in a fluoridation test, the success of which resulted in the water supply being fluoridated.

I lived in that area until I was in my early teens, and whenever I visited the dentist I was given a new toothbrush as a reward for having no tooth decay. I had my first cavity filled a year after leaving, and have always believed in the benefits of fluoridation for children’s teeth. Bring it on. The Countess of Macclesfield Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire

SIR – I understand that the fluoridation of the water supply is being considered ostensibly to protect the teeth of poorer children, who may have a high-sugar diet and no access to an NHS dentist.

Has anyone studied whether these vulnerable children actually drink tap water, rather than the fizzy and sugary drinks that often accompany an unhealthy diet?

Paul Hutchence

Melksham, Wiltshire

SIR – I am currently researching the lives of rural communities on Salisbury Plain during the early to mid-20th century. One of my main points of reference is the school log books now located at the Wiltshire and Swindon Heritage Centre in Chippenham.

There are numerous references to a dentist, appointed by the local education authority, regularly visiting village schools to conduct inspections, and returning to undertake treatment where required. History shows us what we should be doing in the 21st century.

Dr John Black

Bristol

SIR – I agree with Alison Levinson (Letters, February 9): whenever I used to go to an NHS dentist there was always a return visit for a filling or two.

Five years ago I switched to a private dentist, who does not take any NHS patients. Since the extraction that sent me to him in the first place, I have not required a new filling. Keith Appleyard West Wickham, Kent