Fluoride Exposure and Dental Enamel Fluorosis

摘要

At appropriate levels, fluoride has been established as an effective agent in the prevention of dental caries. However, a worldwide increasing prevalence of dental enamel fluorosis, a condition that results from excessive intake of fluoride during tooth development, has raised questions regarding a possible excessive intake of and exposure to fluoride in children. This presentation will review selected studies on the prevalence of dental fluorosis in Mexico. Results from studies conducted in naturally fluoridated areas where water content is above optimal, as well as studies conducted in areas where water has negligible, unknown or optimal amounts of fluoride and fluoridated salt is distributed, will be presented. In addition, results from studies on fluoride intake and exposure in Mexico will be discussed. Findings from a recent epidemiological study that assessed dental enamel fluorosis clinically and through the use of imaging technology as well as fluoride intake and exposure in Mexican children will be presented. Finally, trends on the prevalence of enamel fluorosis in Mexico over the last four decades (before and after the introduction of salt fluoridation) will be discussed. The presentation and discussion of this evidence will be useful to inform public policy aiming at optimizing the beneficial effects of fluoride while minimizing its detrimental effects.