Enamel fluoride concentrations in unerupted third molars and the influence of fluoridated water on caries scores

Enamel fluoride concentrations in buccal and lingual surfaces were determined in successive layers obtained by the acid etch method. The 48 unerupted third molar teeth were from subjects who had lived continuously since birth in two Brazilian towns (Barretos and Ribeirão Pr-eto) with different fluoride levels in the drinking water but with similar socioeconomic conditions. The DMFT index was determined for children 7-12 years old living in the two towns. Enamel fluoride concentrations were significantly higher in the teeth from the town with higher fluoride levels in drinking water. The children residing in the community with near-optimum fluoride concentration in the water had mean DMFT scores that were less than half those found in the community with a low level of fluoride in the drinking water.