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The average daily dose of fluoride: a model based on fluid consumption
J D Shulman1, J A Lalumandier, J D Grabenstein
1Department of Public Health Sciences, Baylor College of Dentistry, Dallas, Texas, USA.
Pediatric Dentistry
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Determining optimal fluoride intake for children is crucial. This study estimates daily fluoride doses from water, suggesting current supplementation guidelines may be too low, warranting evaluation of cumulative fluoride exposure.
Area of Science:
- Dental Public Health
- Pediatric Nutrition
- Fluoride Toxicology
Background:
- The precise fluoride dosage to prevent dental caries while avoiding dental fluorosis remains undetermined.
- Optimal fluoride intake is essential for pediatric dental health, balancing protective and adverse effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the ideal daily fluoride intake for children.
- To compare estimated fluoride intake with current pediatric supplementation recommendations.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of fluid consumption data from the 1977-78 US Nationwide Food Consumption Survey (n=7,345 children).
- Application of data to Dean's 1940s observations of optimally fluoridated communities.
- Calculation of average daily fluoride intake per kilogram of body weight.
Main Results:
- Highest average daily fluoride intake (0.080 mg/kg/d) observed in infants aged 7-9 months, declining to 0.034 mg/kg/d by age 12.5-13 years.
- Mean intake was 0.068 mg/kg/d (birth to 7 years) and 0.042 mg/kg/d (7 to 13 years).
- American Academy of Pediatrics supplementation rates are below estimated average daily intake post-infancy, though overlap exists.
Conclusions:
- Current fluoride supplementation schedules may not provide sufficient fluoride after the first few months of life.
- Cumulative fluoride exposure from multiple sources (water, food, toothpaste) after age three needs assessment regarding fluorosis prevalence.