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A current study of mottled enamel in Texas
Journal of the American Dental Association (1939)
|January 1, 1984
Summary
High fluoride levels in community water significantly increase the risk of enamel mottling in children aged 7-12. Other factors like income have a minimal impact compared to water fluoride concentration.
Area of Science:
- Dental Public Health
- Environmental Health
- Pediatric Dentistry
Background:
- Enamel mottling is a visible indicator of dental fluorosis.
- Community water fluoride levels are a primary factor influencing its prevalence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the association between community water fluoride levels and enamel mottling in children.
- To identify other potential contributing factors to enamel mottling.
Main Methods:
- Assessed enamel mottling scores in subjects aged 7 to 12.
- Correlated scores with community water fluoride levels.
- Analyzed the influence of demographic and socioeconomic factors.
Main Results:
- Water fluoride level accounted for 32% of the variation in mottled enamel scores.
- Objectionable mottling was observed at levels 2.3 times the accepted optimum.
- Family income showed a minor association, with lower incomes having slightly more mottling.
Conclusions:
- Community water fluoride concentration is the dominant factor in enamel mottling.
- Public health efforts should focus on optimizing water fluoride levels to prevent dental fluorosis.