Effects of fluoride in drinking water on health of deciduous teeth

Abstract

High incidence of decayed deciduous teeth, as well as lack of adequate therapy, makes tooth decay prevention very important. One of the simplest ways to reduce tooth decay is fluoridation of drinking water. The optimal concentration of fluoride in drinking water is 1 ppm/l, and many waters naturally contain this quantity. Waters in Vojvodina are mainly poor in fluoride, except in a few regions. It has long been postulated that fluoride has a prophyilactic effect during intrauterine life. Today a theory of greater local impact of fluoride has been accepted, as well as its role in de- and remineralization of solid tooth tissue. This epidemiological study was performed in the area of Vojvodina, in places with various fluoride concentrations in drinking water (0.18-1.04 ppm/l). Dental examination was performed among 145 children, 6 years of age. For tooth decay detection DMF index was used. In places with low and optimal fluoride concentration in drinking water the percentage of children with decayed teeth is different, but without statistical significance. The percentage of affected deciduous teeth is high in all places. In places with low fluoride concentration it is 24.2-32.3%, in places with optimal concentration is it 27-32%. The average value of DMF in all places is between 4.7-6.4. These results show that the optimal fluoride concentration in drinking water decreases the incidence of tooth decay, but this difference is not significant. Presence of fluoride in drinking water doesn't affect health of deciduous teeth. Decreased incidence of decayed deciduous teeth can be achieved only with combined usage of fluoride (local and systemic), as well as with an intensive health education program.