Fluoride application in middle childhood. A cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Public Health
• Caries Prevention

Background:

• Fluoride application is vital for preventing dental caries, but specific guidelines for middle childhood are limited.
• This study aimed to assess daily fluoride exposure in children aged six to 12 years and compare it with existing recommendations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the daily fluoride intake from toothpaste in children aged six to 12 years.
• To compare children's fluoride exposure with current guidelines and recommendations for caries prevention.

Main Methods:

• Children used their usual amount of toothpaste, with the quantity measured before and after application.
• Data on water fluoridation, oral hygiene practices, product usage, and parental knowledge were collected.
• Daily fluoride exposure was determined and analyzed against established recommendations.

Main Results:

• The study included 458 children (mean age 8.0 years); 76.4% used age-appropriate toothpaste.
• The mean toothpaste quantity used (0.42 g) was below the recommended 0.5-0.75 g.
• 94.1% of children did not meet fluoride intake recommendations, and only 37.7% used supplementary fluoride sources.

Conclusions:

• A significant gap exists between recommended and actual fluoride intake among children.
• Urgent need for enhanced parental education on fluoride prophylaxis for effective caries prevention.
• Children over six in low-fluoridated areas require specific guidance on using fluoridated toothpaste and supplementary fluoride sources.