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Fluoride supplementation. A survey of pediatricians and pediatric dentists
1Department of Pediatric Dentistry, University of Texas-Houston Health Science Center 77030.
Objective:
To determine the protocol and use of prescriptions of fluoride supplementation by primary care pediatricians and pediatric dentists in the Houston (Tex) area.
Design:
Survey mailed to all primary care pediatricians and pediatric dentists listed in the Yellow Pages of the Greater Houston telephone directory.
Participants:
153 pediatricians and 47 pediatric dentists.
Main Results:
Ninety-six percent of the participants prescribed fluoride supplements. Fifty-one percent of the pediatricians and 61% of the dentists considered that the fluoride content of the water was important. Seventy percent of the pediatricians and 30% of the dentists discontinued the use of supplements by age 7 to 10 years.
Conclusions:
Pediatricians and pediatric dentists should consider the need for water analysis prior to supplementation and should continue the use of fluoride supplements until 16 years of age.