Benefits and risks of fluoride supplementation: caries prevention versus dental fluorosis.
To assess the risks (dental fluorosis) and the benefits (caries prevention) of fluoride (F) tablets and F toothpaste, we surveyed 2003 schoolchildren aged 5-20 years old (mean = 10.82, SD = 3.40). Children were scored for dental caries by means of the decayed, missing, filled teeth index (DMFT index). Frequent use of F toothpaste (toothbrushing frequency) is poorly linked to caries (Spearman r = 0.05, P = 0.02) and dental fluorosis (r = 0.05, P = 0.03). Children who use F tablets regularly and appropriately exhibit mild fluorosis more often than non- or occasional users (odds ratio = 9.58), and have a mean DMFT index 50% lower than other children. We conclude that using F tablets is an effective means of preventing caries. When used appropriately in non fluoridated areas, using F tablets results in minor damage.
D'Hoore
W
W
School of Public Health, Catholic University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.
Van Nieuwenhuysen
J P
JP
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004245:DMF Index; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005260:Female; D005459:Fluorides / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000652:urine; D009050:Fluorosis, Dental / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012307:Risk Factors; D013607:Tablets; D014100:Toothpastes
D013607:Tablets; D014100:Toothpastes; D005459:Fluorides