What is Fluoride?
 It’s a common natural element in the ground, the sea and in most ground water. The natural level in Rotorua’s water supplies is up to 0.2 parts per million (ppm). At around 0.7 to 1.0 ppm it has been used in water supplies for up to 60 years to safely reduce tooth decay.
Fluorine, like chlorine, is uncommon in a pure state. They usually combine with other elements to form compounds, such as sodium fluoride or sodium chloride (table salt). In these forms they are safe and stable.
What is Fluoridation?
It’s the practice of topping up the natural fluoride levels in public water supplies to 0.7 to 1.0 ppm with a fluoride compound. At this level the fluoride reduces tooth decay with no harmful health effects.
How Does Fluoridation Work?
Researchers say trace levels of fluoride in drinks, food and saliva wash over teeth, preventing bacteria in our mouths from converting sugars and starches into acid that attacks tooth enamel and makes holes that can be infected with decay-causing bacteria.
The right levels of fluoride can also help children to develop teeth with stronger enamel and smoother surfaces that are less prone to decay, and can also work with tooth enamel to repair minor surface damage before bacteria can break through to cause decay.
Why do we Need Fluoridation?
Rotorua children have among the worst oral health level in New Zealand, with more than 180 children a year referred for operations under general anaesthetic for serious tooth decay. Health authorities already promote good teeth cleaning and nutrition, but it’s not enough. With water fluoridation we can gain a 15-20% reduction in the severity of the problem, plus lower tooth decay and dental bills for adults, for between 50c and $1.00 per person per year.
How do we get Fluoridation?
We need to persuade District Councillors to vote for fluoridation so we can improve everyone’s oral health and make a real difference to the pain, suffering and health problems endured by hundreds of Rotorua children and adults.
Questions about Fluoridation?
If you have any questions about fluoridation we would be happy to answer them. Simply email us using the online form under Contact Us.
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