Arizona providers' use and knowledge of fluoride supplements

Dietary fluoride supplements are recommended for dental caries prevention in children without access to optimally fluoridated water. Previous studies have shown deficiencies in dentists' and physicians' knowledge about dietary fluoride supplementation. Data were collected from dentists, physicians and other healthcare provider groups to assess dietary fluoride supplement knowledge and practices. Pediatricians and dentists were found to be the most knowledgeable concerning the recommended prescribing protocols. Substantial proportions of all practitioner groups had insufficient knowledge about the recommended dosages of dietary fluoride supplements by age, fluoride levels in local water supplies, and the effectiveness of fluoride delivery methods. Baseline knowledge and practices were determined for healthcare provider groups within Arizona.