A chara, – It is true that dental health in Ireland has improved since the introduction of a fluoridated water supply in the 1960s (FR Baigel, February 20th). However, it is equally true that access to cheap fluoridated toothpaste and better education occurred over a similar period, and has achieved very positive outcomes.
Fluoride is a very effective topical treatment in the prevention of gum disease and cavities, but adding fluoride to the water supply is unnecessary in a modern economy and only serves to overexpose us to it.
Given the recent concerns over fluoride, surely the precautionary principle should apply and water fluoridation be discontinued? – Is mise,
ALAN W LALLY,
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Herbert Avenue,
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