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Association between infant formula feeding and dental fluorosis and caries in Australian children

Loc G Do1, Steven M Levy, A John Spencer

  • 1Australian Research Centre for Population Oral Health, The University of Adelaide, Australia. loc.do@adelaide.edu.au

Journal of Public Health Dentistry
|February 10, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Infant formula use increased fluorosis risk in nonfluoridated areas but not fluoridated ones. Using non-tap water for formula in fluoridated areas was linked to higher caries experience in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Dentistry
  • Public Health
  • Fluoride Research

Background:

  • Dental fluorosis and caries are significant pediatric oral health concerns.
  • Infant feeding practices, particularly formula use, may influence these outcomes.
  • Understanding the role of water fluoridation and formula preparation is crucial for prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between infant formula feeding patterns and dental fluorosis and caries.
  • To analyze these associations within the context of water fluoridation status in Australian children.

Main Methods:

  • A population-based study involving 588 Australian children aged 8-13 years.
  • Categorization of children based on infant formula use duration and water fluoridation status.
  • Assessment of dental fluorosis using the Thylstrup and Fejerskov (TF) Index and primary tooth caries experience from clinical records.

Main Results:

  • Children in fluoridated areas showed higher mild fluorosis but lower caries experience than those in nonfluoridated areas.
  • Prolonged infant formula use (6+ months) in nonfluoridated areas correlated with increased fluorosis prevalence.
  • In fluoridated areas, formula use with non-tap water was associated with higher caries experience.

Conclusions:

  • Infant formula use is linked to higher fluorosis prevalence in nonfluoridated environments.
  • Water source used for formula reconstitution in fluoridated areas impacts caries risk.
  • Public health strategies should consider water quality and infant feeding practices for optimal oral health.
Abstract

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