FLUORIDE is a naturally occurring mineral that has a history of being used to reduce dental caries.

Fluoride may be added to water to reduce dental decay and tackle oral health inequalities. Fluoride protects teeth in a number of ways: 1. It makes developing enamel more resistant to acid.

2. It helps repair teeth in the early stages of decay.

3. It reduces the the ability of plaque bacteria to produce acid.

The recommended level of fluoride is one part per million and all major reviews of the safety of fluoride have found no evidence of hazards to health.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Local Dental Committee supports the fluoridation of water supplies to safeguard the oral health of the public in the area that it represents.

KEITH PERCIVAL, honorary secretary, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Local Dental Committee.