Something in the water...

Water fluoridation may be on the cards for Dubai residents, Middle East Dentist has learnt.

The public health proposal is being considered by the Dubai Health Authority, a government source said, as part of measures to tackle the rocketing levels of decay among the Emirate's school-age children.

"We've been fighting for it for a while," he said. "Just introducing basic water fluoridation would make my life much easier."

The proposed move is likely to face opposition from the public, he admitted.

"There is a lot of resistance. There is a lot of debate as to whether fluoride is beneficial or not."

The American Dental Association cites a 50% decline in cavities since water fluoridation was first introduced in the United States more than 60 years ago.

"Based on the available peer-reviewed evidence, the ADA supports water fluoridation within the optimum range, as a safe and effective means of caries prevention," the ADA said in a statement.