A new study has revealed that fluoride in water has significantly improved the oral health of Queensland children — but fewer kids are brushing their teeth as often as recommended.
Research from The University of Queensland has found that the number of primary school-aged children with tooth decay has dropped by more than 10 per cent over the past decade, thanks largely to the expansion of water fluoridation across the state.
The findings come from the Queensland Child Oral Health Study (QCOHS) 2021–24, which surveyed 7,718 school students aged five to 14 from randomly selected state, Catholic, and independent schools. Conducted in partnership with Queensland Health and the Department of Education, the study followed up on earlier research from 2010 to 2012 to track progress in children’s dental health.
Fewer cavities, especially in fluoridated areas
Professor Loc Do from UQ’s School of Dentistry said the data showed clear benefits of fluoride in water.
“The percentage of children aged five to 10 with tooth decay in their baby teeth fell from 49.5 per cent to 38.8 per cent,” Professor Do said.
“The average number of tooth surfaces affected by decay also declined — from 4.1 to 2.9 — showing a steady improvement.”
The study found that these improvements were most notable in areas where water fluoridation had been introduced over the past decade, while regions without fluoride in water saw little change.
“The benefits of fluoridation remained significant even after accounting for socioeconomic and health factors,” Professor Do added.
Room for improvement in daily habits
While decay rates are falling, the research also revealed some concerning trends in children’s dental habits.
Almost 40 per cent of Queensland kids now have at least one sugary drink a day, and the number of children brushing twice daily has dropped from 72 per cent to 63 per cent.
Professor Do said this highlights the need for renewed education around dental care.
“Oral health promotion should be stepped up to remind parents and children about the importance of regular brushing and reducing sugary drinks,” he said.
Ensuring all Queensland kids benefit
Queensland Chief Dental Officer Dr Ben Stute said the results were encouraging but pointed to gaps that still need addressing.
“Not all children have benefited equally since the previous study,” Dr Stute said.
“These findings will guide how we deliver public dental services and preventive strategies in the coming years to make sure all Queensland children enjoy better oral health.”
Dr Stute said the study also provides “up-to-date, high-quality, local evidence” supporting the effectiveness of water fluoridation — information he hopes will reassure local councils about the positive impact of the program.
What’s next
The findings were presented at a two-day workshop (14–15 October) where researchers and policymakers met to discuss ways to further improve children’s oral health across the state.
The project was funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and supported by Queensland Health.
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