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Fluoride intake and utilization by Hungarian children: associations and interrelationships
R G Schamschula1, J L Duppenthaler, E Sugár
1Institute of Dental Research, NSW, Australia.
Acta Physiologica Hungarica
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Fluoride intake from water and food significantly impacts children's dental health, reducing caries prevalence and severity. Higher fluoride levels correlate with increased dental fluorosis and fluoride in biological samples.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Dental caries and fluorosis are significant public health concerns in children.
- Understanding the interaction between mineral intake and dental health is crucial for preventive strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between fluoride (F), aluminum (Al), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) intake and dental health outcomes in Hungarian children.
- To assess the influence of these minerals on biological samples and their correlation with fluoride utilization.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study examining dietary intake of F, Al, Ca, and Mg.
- Analysis of dental health parameters including DMFT, DMFS, and severity of caries (SR).
- Measurement of F content in biological samples (enamel, plaque, saliva, urine, nails, hair) and household water.
Main Results:
- Inverse relationship observed between fluoride intake (water, food, beverages) and caries prevalence (DMFT, DMFS) and severity (SR).
- Direct correlation found between fluoride intake and dental fluorosis, as well as fluoride levels in enamel, plaque, saliva, urine, nails, and hair.
- No significant association between magnesium intake and fluoride utilization.
- Potential interference of aluminum and calcium with fluoride uptake requires further investigation.
Conclusions:
- Fluoride intake is a critical determinant of dental health in children, influencing both caries prevention and fluorosis development.
- Biological samples reflect systemic fluoride exposure and can serve as indicators of intake.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the role of aluminum and calcium in fluoride metabolism and dental health.