Modification of occurrence of caries in children by toothbrushing and sugar exposure in fluoridated and nonfluoridated areas

Abstract
A representative sample (2024 children, 7–16 years old) from fluoridated and nonfluoridated areas was studied. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data on oral health habits; caries diagnoses were made by local dentists in municipal dental clinics. In the fluoridated area a positive correlation existed between toothbrushing frequency and occurrence of dental caries. In the nonfluoridated area the correlation was negative. This difference in the effect of toothbrushing on caries was statistically significant. Sugar exposure increased the difference.