However, the Centres for Disease Control stated in 1999 “fluoride prevents dental caries (decay) predominately after eruption of the tooth into the mouth, and its actions primarily are topical for both adults and children”.

The National Research Council concurred, stating in 2006 “the major anticaries benefit of fluoride is topical and not systemic”.

What does this all mean?

It means fluoride is only useful when used on the outside of your teeth, and there is no benefit when swallowed.

So, why it is of any concern if fluoride is swallowed?

Well, Harvard School of Public Health and China Medical University in Shenyang studies have concluded fluoride lowers IQ by as much seven points in some cases.

Not to mention Harvard studies have also found people who drink fluoridated water are more likely to contract bone cancer (Osteosarcoma).

It is ridiculous this largely unknown chemical is being added to our drinking water, to prevent tooth decay, when still to this day, we are unaware of the long-term health effects of it.

Albury Council needs to take this on board and have the intestinal fortitude to admit an outdated practice is not up to scratch with today’s scientific research.

Fluoride in toothpaste is fine as it is in a controlled amount and it hardens enamel; however, it is impossible to control the exact amount of fluoride in fluoridated water, hence, why we see so many people with dental fluorosis (discolouration and eroding of the enamel with white dots).

— MICHAEL MURPHY,

Thurgoona