Patterns and Distribution of Dental Caries and Dental Fluorosis in Areas with Varying Degrees of Fluoride Ion Concentration in Drinking Water

Abstract

In the present times, the relationship between water fluoride ion concentration, dental caries and dental fluorosis in not as clear as it was in the past. Also, the patterns and distribution of dental caries and dental fluorosis has been changing in the recent times. Data needs to be comprehensively re assessed in order to have preventive strategies balancing the burden of both the conditions. A community based epidemiological study was thus designed to assess the patterns and distribution of dental caries and dental fluorosis in areas with varying levels of water fluoride ion concentration in drinking water supply. A total of 2401 school children were examined, dental caries prevalence was 38% with a mean DMF(S) of 1.2 ± 0.79. Occlusal caries was most common with a mean score of 2.53 ± 1.3. Fluorosis prevalence was 45%. TSIF scores in the category of 1-3 were the most common encountered. No relation was observed between water fluoride levels and the prevalence of dental caries. At water fluoride level ranging from 0.3 ppm to 5.2 ppm, the most common form of fluorosis to be observed was in the TSIF scores ranging from 1-3.