The results of a recent study published in the journal “Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology” indicates there is a positive correlation between the discontinuation of public water supply fluoridation and increased tooth decay in children residing in two Canadian cities. Following the discontinuation of public water supply fluoridation in both Calgary and Edmonton, researchers found a statistically significant increase in primary tooth decay among the study population. Observed longer-term impacts – permanent tooth decay on the smooth surfaces of teeth – were not statistically significant, though a slight negative trend was observed in Calgary.
The results of this study will most likely not significantly change the often-contentious debate over public water supply fluoridation in the short term. However, the study does reflect the latest available science on the potential effects of fluoridation decisions and is sure to be a part of local debates surrounding the issue moving forward.