The Government has announced the largest expansion of water fluoridation in England since the 1980s, aiming to reach an additional 1.6 million people across the North East. The initiative is designed to tackle tooth decay, particularly in deprived areas where dental health inequalities are most pronounced.
Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral, has been shown to reduce tooth decay, and fluoridation schemes have been in place in parts of England since the 1960s. Currently, around 10% of England’s population receives fluoridated water, mainly in the West Midlands and the North East.
Following a public consultation, the Department of Health and Social Care confirmed the expansion would cover areas including Darlington, Durham, Newcastle, Sunderland, and Middlesbrough. The move is backed by decades of evidence showing that fluoridation is a safe and effective public health measure. However, a recent review suggested that the benefits of water fluoridation have declined since fluoride toothpaste became widely available, though it remains an important tool in preventing tooth decay.
Dr Nigel Carter OBE, CEO of the Oral Health Foundation, says: ‘We wholeheartedly welcome the Government’s decision to expand water fluoridation in the North East – this is a landmark moment for public health. Fluoridation is one of the most effective, evidence-based measures we have to reduce tooth decay, particularly in children and communities most at risk. This expansion will mean fewer children suffering from unnecessary pain, fewer hospital admissions for dental extractions, and a significant reduction in the inequalities that persist in oral health.
‘Water fluoridation has been proven safe and effective for decades, benefiting millions worldwide. It works alongside other vital measures, including supervised toothbrushing and access to NHS dentistry, to build a healthier future for all. This investment in prevention will pay dividends for generations to come.
‘We now urge the Government to go further and identify other areas of the UK that would benefit from water fluoridation. By expanding this programme beyond the North East, we can make a meaningful and lasting impact on oral health across the country, ensuring that no community is left behind in the fight against tooth decay.’
BDA Chair Eddie Crouch said: ‘Water fluoridation has been around since the Second World War. Supervised brushing since Victorian times. Tried and tested policies, but it shows we need real pace here. ‘Building an NHS dental service fit for the future won’t wait till the 22nd Century.’
Barry Cockcroft CBE, Chair of the British Fluoridation Society (BFS), further welcomed the announcement, commenting: ‘Water fluoridation is a proven, safe, and cost-effective public health measure that benefits individuals throughout their lifetime, reducing the need for costly and invasive dental treatments. The positive impact of fluoridation extends from childhood through to old age, ensuring lasting protection against tooth decay and contributing to better overall oral health.
‘The BFS commends the joint efforts of regional health partners in supporting this initiative to address oral health inequalities. By investing in preventive strategies, we can ensure better oral health outcomes for future generations.’
Original article online at: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41404-025-3125-3