Abstract

FUJIBAYASHI, Susy Yukie et al. Dental fluorosis severity in a group of school children. RSBO (Online) [online]. 2011, vol.8, n.2, pp. 168-173. ISSN 1984-5685.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of dental fluorosis in a group of school children in the city of Campo do Tenente (Parana, Brazil) in order to compare the mean fluoride concentration in public water supply and discuss the effective values for fluoridation of water supply, as well as, the need of control of fluoride concentration within the water consumed by population. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Firstly, 362 children enrolled in regular public schools, at elementary level, were examined by a single researcher, previously calibrated for Dean's index application. From these, 90 children were affected by some degree of fluorosis, but only 40 returned the signed free and clarified consent form for participating in the research. RESULTS: It was found that 42.5% of the children presented mild fluorosis and 32.5% moderate fluorosis. Moreover, it was observed that the average fluoride concentration in public water supply, in 2004, was 1.7 ppm of fluoride. CONCLUSION: These results demonstrate the need of a closer supervision of the city situation, by the inclusion of fluoridation external control and constant monitoring of the oral health status of the population.

Keywords : fluoridation; dental fluorosis; dental caries.