Pearson says, "Over the last five to six months, there have been intermittent problems with the new equipment underfeeding the prescribed level of fluoride. Ongoing attempts to resolve the problems have been unsuccessful, and we are working aggressively with the manufacturer to replace the equipment. We are confident that the program will be running again within four to six weeks."

Dr. Margaret Fast, Medical Officer of Health with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, says, "Interruptions to the fluoridation program such as this do not adversely affect program benefits. Consultation with dental health professionals confirms that residents do not need to seek alternate sources of fluoride at this time."

Winnipeg has been adding fluoride to its water supply since 1956 and monitors fluoride levels in accordance with the provincial program. Fluoride levels in the water are typically maintained at a level of 0.9 milligrams per litre, consistent with national guidelines.

In addition to drinking water, Canadians are primarily exposed to fluoride in food and oral hygiene products, such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, and gels and varnishes applied by dental health professionals. All vegetation and virtually all foods contain at least trace amounts of fluoride. Foods that contain the highest levels of fluoride include fish, shellfish, meat, and tea.