Town of New Glasgow to stop adding fluoride to water supply, dental association concerned
The decision by town council in New Glasgow to stop adding fluoride to the community’s water supply has sparked controversy and concern among health professionals, including the Nova Scotia Dental Association. The move, which was based on a recommendation from the town’s assistant director of engineering and public works, has raised questions about the potential impact on public health.
Dr. Claire Karst, a dentist and president of the dental association, expressed her concerns about the decision in a recent interview with CBC Radio’s Maritime Noon. She emphasized the importance of water fluoridation in preventing tooth decay, citing the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recognition of it as one of the top 10 public health measures of the last century.
The Town of New Glasgow justified its decision by stating that studies had indicated a lack of conclusive evidence on the use of fluoride in delivering safe drinking water. The council also cited concerns about the health and safety of workers and the general public as factors influencing their choice to remove hydrofluorosilicic acid from the water supply.
While the council highlighted the need to prevent fluoride levels from exceeding acceptable limits when combined with other sources, Karst stressed the benefits of systemic fluoridation for tooth protection, especially in children. She referenced the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health’s recommended safe level of fluoride in water and the importance of maintaining regulated limits.
According to a report by the Public Health Agency of Canada, approximately half of Nova Scotia’s population receives fluoride from a community water supply, with lower numbers in other Atlantic provinces. The phasing out of fluoridated water in some regions, such as Montreal, has raised concerns about the environmental impact and the necessity of such measures.
In response to New Glasgow’s decision, the Nova Scotia Dental Association has collaborated with health organizations to provide resources supporting water fluoridation. They have reached out to council members to engage in a dialogue on the issue, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based science in decision-making.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how communities will balance the potential benefits of water fluoridation with concerns about safety and environmental impact. The role of health professionals and scientific research will play a crucial role in shaping future policies on water fluoridation in Nova Scotia and beyond.
