Research focus: Fluoride has greater benefits for vulnerable children

Water fluoridation is effective in preventing tooth decay overall, but there are greater benefits for children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, University of Queensland research has found.

Professor Loc Do from UQ’s School of Dentistry, and researchers from the Institute of Science Tokyo, Japan and the University of Adelaide, conducted a study that examined Australian children’s exposure to fluoridated water and compared it to demographic factors such as socioeconomic status, parental background and geography.

“This is the first high-level scientific study that shows water fluoridation as a population strategy reduces socioeconomic inequalities in children’s oral health,” Professor Do said.

“We found while water fluoridation helps prevent tooth cavities across the board, it is more beneficial for vulnerable populations.”