Queensland dentists and doctors have reported extensive tooth decay among children and elderly in Queensland communities without fluoride in their water.
A recent report by Queensland’s chief medical officer found a quarter of Queensland children admitted to hospital require treatment for a dental condition.
The rate of tooth decay in Indigenous children is about 70%, with the Australian Medical Association reporting that dentists are often having to perform multiple tooth extractions.
Only 22 of Queensland’s 77 councils currently add fluoride to their water, after the Newman government pulled funding.