Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2026
08:20
Systematic Approach to Identify Novel Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Molecules from Plants' Extracts and Fractions to Prevent Dental Caries
Published on: March 31, 2021
The Strong Teeth Study; background, rationale and feasibility of fluoridating remote Indigenous communities
A J Spencer1, R Bailie, L Jamieson
1ARCPOH, School of Dentistry, The University of Adelaide, Menzies School of Health Research, Queensland, Australia. john.spencer@adelaide.edu.au
International Dental Journal
|August 20, 2010
Summary
Fluoridation projects for remote Indigenous Australian children faced sustainability challenges despite potential oral health benefits. Lessons learned highlight the need for robust environmental and service support for effective public health interventions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Indigenous Health
Background:
- Caries experience in Australian Indigenous children has worsened, contrasting with improvements in non-Indigenous children.
- Water fluoridation was proposed for remote Indigenous communities in the early 2000s.
- Challenges include the small, dispersed, and isolated nature of these communities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the Strong Teeth Study, focusing on fluoridation projects in remote Northern Territory Indigenous communities.
- To present the rationale and feasibility of small-scale water fluoridation and caries impact measurement.
- To identify lessons learned regarding environmental and service requirements for such initiatives.
Main Methods:
- Description of two demonstration fluoridation projects in remote Indigenous communities.
- Assessment of the feasibility of operating small-scale fluoridation plants.
- Evaluation of methods for measuring the impact of fluoridation on caries experience.
Main Results:
- Demonstration fluoridation projects were initiated but not sustained.
- Key challenges related to environmental enablers and essential service requirements were identified.
- The potential of fluoridation to improve oral health and child development was recognized.
Conclusions:
- Implementing water fluoridation in remote Indigenous communities presents significant logistical and sustainability hurdles.
- Understanding and addressing environmental and service needs is crucial for successful public health interventions.
- Fluoridation holds potential for improving Indigenous child oral health and contributing to closing the health gap.
Related Concept Videos
01:15Teeth
The formation of teeth, also known as odontogenesis, is a complex process that begins in utero, around the sixth week of embryonic development. There are three stages to this process: the bud stage, the cap stage, and the bell stage.
In the bud stage, the tooth germ (an aggregation of cells) starts to form in the developing jawbone. During the cap stage, the tooth germ differentiates into enamel organ, dental papilla, and dental sac, which will later develop into the tooth's enamel, dentin and...
In the bud stage, the tooth germ (an aggregation of cells) starts to form in the developing jawbone. During the cap stage, the tooth germ differentiates into enamel organ, dental papilla, and dental sac, which will later develop into the tooth's enamel, dentin and...
01:27The Oral Microbiota
The oral microbiome includes a complex ecosystem comprising over 700 microbial species, identified through genomic sequencing and culture-based analyses to date. This community includes a core microbiome, found universally among individuals, and a variable component influenced by environmental factors such as diet, lifestyle, and host genetics. Site-specific conditions, including oxygen gradients, pH levels, and nutrient availability, determine the spatial distribution of these microorganisms...
01:28Development of the Oral Microbiota
The establishment of the oral microbiome begins before birth, challenging the long-held belief that the fetal oral cavity is sterile. The presence of oral microbes such as Streptococcus and Fusobacterium in amniotic fluid suggests that microbial exposure may occur in utero, potentially through translocation from the maternal oral or gastrointestinal tract. This early colonization primes the neonatal immune system and sets the stage for subsequent microbial succession. Maternal health,...
01:26Assessment of the Mouth
A thorough mouth assessment, including inspection and palpation of the lips, gums, tongue, tonsils, uvula, and pharynx, is crucial in detecting potential health issues. Diseases ranging from oral cancer to systemic conditions like diabetes could be identified early through careful oral examination. This article provides a detailed guide on conducting a comprehensive mouth assessment.
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
01:21Tooth Anatomy
The human tooth enables us to eat a variety of foods, speak clearly, and even aid in shaping our faces. Teeth are composed of various elements that work together. Here's a detailed look at the anatomy of a human tooth.
The Crown, Neck, and Root
The visible part of the tooth is referred to as the crown. It's covered by enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. The crown is uniquely shaped for each type of tooth, allowing for different functions such as cutting, tearing, or grinding food.
The Crown, Neck, and Root
The visible part of the tooth is referred to as the crown. It's covered by enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. The crown is uniquely shaped for each type of tooth, allowing for different functions such as cutting, tearing, or grinding food.