Prevalence of Dental Fluorosis in a Non-Endemic District of Tamil Nadu, India

V.C. Punitha, P. Sivaprakasam, R. Elango, R. Balasubramanian, G.H. M. Kumar and B.T.S.B. Nelson

Department of Community Medicine, Meenakshi Medical College and Hospitals, Enathur, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India

ABSTRACT:

Despite the fact that Kanchipuram district in Tamilnadu is not considered a fluorosis endemic district, this study was under taken as few fluorosis cases reported in our institution. The objectives of the study are: 1.To describe the prevalence of dental fluorosis among children aged 7-15 years. 2. To assess fluoride levels in drinking water supply in the study villages. 3. To assess knowledge and attitude regarding fluorosis among children affected with fluorosis. A cross sectional study was conducted where 348 children of age 7-15 years were examined for fluorosis by a qualified dentist who graded the severity of fluorosis using the Dean's Fluorosis Index. Information on knowledge and attitude regarding fluorosis was collected from children through an interview schedule. Water samples were collected from various drinking water sources and were analyzed for its fluoride levels. The prevalence of dental fluorosis was 19.2%(CI- 15.1,23.3). The analysis of drinking water sources showed fluoride levels up to 2.2mg/l of water. Significant correlation between high fluoride levels and occurrence of fluorosis (p<0.0001) found. Positive correlation found between age and severity of fluorosis (r=0.6690, p<0.0001). Dental caries occurrence was found less in children with fluorosis (p <.0001). Only five children with fluorosis knew that the discolouration of their teeth was due to water they consume. It was observed that water was not subjected for quality standards periodically. Few rural pockets of this district have ground water levels high in fluoride. Steps should be taken to find alternate source of water supply and most importantly potable water should be analysed periodically for its quality.

KEYWORDS:

Prevalence; Fluorosis; Water

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