Inadequate fluoridation sparks concern of “dental disaster”

New Zealand: Adequate levels of fluoride have returned to the public water in the Wellington Region after an independent inquiry found the tooth-protecting substance improperly administered for six years.

Following the inquiry launched in March, it was revealed fluoridation had fallen short of the Ministry of Health’s target range.

The damning report found that Wellington Water had switched off fluoridation at two plants last year without informing the board, councils, or residents. It was further revealed that the company did not prioritize fluoridation for oral health.

Calling the situation a “dental disaster”, New Zealand Dental Association spokesman Dr Rob Beaglehole warned about higher incidences of dental decay as a potential outcome.

Proper fluoridation reinstated

The public utilities provider has since apologized for its failings. A recent update they released stated new fluoride facilities at the Te Marua and Gear Island Water Treatment Plants were now operating reliably.

“It’s been five months since we first announced that the fluoride facilities at the Te Marua and Gear Island Water Treatment Plants were turned off,” said chief executive Colin Crampton of Wellington Water.

“Since then, we’ve had a team of dedicated Wellington Water employees working tirelessly to build new facilities and get fluoride back on.”

According to Crampton, fluoridation for most of September was found within the Ministry’s target range following some tests. All four of the region’s metropolitan water treatment plants will continue to operate and supply monthly reports of fluoride levels. The public will be notified when fluoride facilities are turned off for maintenance or repairs.

Alarm bells failed to ring

The report also found Regional Public Health (RPH) was aware of the problem since 2016, but did not raise any concerns.

The role of RPH health was supposed to “promote good health, prevent disease, and improve the quality of life for our population”.

As of 1 July, Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand has taken over from RPH, which no longer exists.