Fluorosis in relation to fluoride levels in water in central Nigeria.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: This study was conducted to examine the prevalence of dental fluorosis in relation to fluoride levels in water among children aged 12-15 years in the states of Plateau and Bauchi, Nigeria. METHODS: Children (N = 203) were examined using WHO criteria. The children were from two schools and permanent residents of the communities in which the schools are located (Tilden Fulani and Kanadap). Intra-examiner reliability for determining fluorosis scores was 80%. RESULTS: Fluoride levels in the water ranged from 0.0-0.4 mg/L. Prevalence of dental fluorosis in the sample was 51%. Forty-one percent had very mild fluorosis, 7% had mild fluorosis and 3% had moderate to severe fluorosis. The lowest DMFT was observed in the school where the fluoride level of the water ranged between 0.0 and 0.4 mg/L, and in the group with very mild fluorosis. CONCLUSION: Fluoride levels in water for central Nigeria were appropriate for oral health. In the areas where the children were permanent residents, factors other than the fluoride levels of the water contributed to the severity of dental fluorosis.