New research has found that water fluoridation in Queensland reduced the rate of tooth decay in children aged five to 10 from 49.5% to 38.8%. The study, led by Professor Loc Do from the University of Queensland's School of Dentistry, analysed data from 7,718 school students collected between 2021 and 2024.
The biggest improvement was seen in areas that had recently introduced fluoridation, while regions without fluoridation saw little change. Professor Do noted that previous research from 2010-12 showed Queensland children had among the worst teeth in the country.
Despite the findings, most Queensland councils have opted against fluoridation. Of 77 local government areas, only 16 add fluoride to water, mostly in south-east Queensland, with five more having naturally occurring fluoride. Two councils, Gympie and Cook, have voted to cease fluoridation in the last year.
Queensland is the only state that gives councils authority over water fluoridation, and it has the lowest rates in the country. A 2008 mandate requiring fluoridation was reversed in 2012. Queensland's chief dental officer, Ben Stute, said the study provides up-to-date evidence supporting the effectiveness of water fluoridation.
Health Minister Tim Nicholls stated that decisions on fluoridation rest with local councils, who should make choices reflective of their communities. Researchers plan to conduct an economic analysis to quantify savings from reduced dental healthcare costs.
