Enamel Fluoride, Dental Fluorosis and Dental Caries among Immigrants to and Permanent Residents of Five Danish Fluoride Areas

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
In order to study the mechanisms by which fluoride exerts its effect on dental enamel, enamel fluoride concentration, dental fluorosis and dental caries were compared among 14- to 16-year-old permanent residents and new arrivals in areas with 1.0-2.1 parts/106 fluoride in Denmark. Examinations were done blindly. No significant differences in concentration of fluoride in the enamel surface and in prevalence of dental caries could be found between the two groups. The distribution of fluoride-induced enamel changes i.e. dental fluorosis, within the dentition was similar in both groups. However, the new arrivals exhibited a lower prevalence than permanent residents. These findings are discussed in relation to the widespread use of topical fluorides in the Danish Child Dental Care Service. It is concluded that maximum caries reduction through local use of fluoride may now be obtained without the risk of significant increase in prevalence of dental fluorosis.