HC Deb 02 May 2001 vol 367 c649W
Mr. Drew

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will publish the health data for the fluoride compounds used in artificial fluoridation procedures. [158441]

Mr. Denham

Fluoride compounds used for artificial fluoridation break down to release fluoride and other ions when mixed with water. These ions occur naturally in water supplies. The recently published review by York University found no evidence of any harmful effects on systemic health from drinking fluoridated water and acknowledged benefits in reducing tooth decay. However, as the review was critical of the quality of the research available, we have asked the Medical Research Council how the evidence base might be strengthened.

Mr. Drew

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on dental fluorosis with specific regard to links to systemic toxicity. [158440]

Mr. Denham

Dental fluorosis is considered to be an effect seen in teeth and is due to the presence of fluoride in the body while teeth are being formed. Its presence does not necessarily imply any harm to health or that fluoride is having any effect, good or bad, on any other part of the body.