Fluoride in water

Tooth decay and gum disease can be mostly prevented, but many people still have problems with it. In some local areas around a third of 5-year-old children already have tooth decay. So it's important to start looking after teeth and gums from an early age.

Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, eating a healthy diet, reducing sugary foods and drinks and going to the dentist regularly, all helps to prevent tooth decay from starting and from getting worse. Fluoride is also important for keeping teeth healthy.

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water and some foods. All water contains fluoride naturally in varying amounts. The amount of naturally occurring fluoride in water varies across the UK. In Norfolk and Waveney the amounts are too low to benefit teeth.

In some areas of the UK, fluoride has been added to the water for decades, to help reduce dental decay, especially where there's not enough natural fluoride. In England, about 10% of people have fluoride added to the water supply, but it's not done in Norfolk and Waveney, where some areas have very low natural fluoride levels in the water.

We will be conducting a survey in the future about tooth decay and to find out your views about the fluoridation of water in Norfolk. If you're interested in taking part please add your email address below and we will be in touch.

Find out more about preventing tooth decay and water fluoridation: