Prevalence of Dental Fluorosis in Area of Yemen with Above Optimal Level of Fluoride in Drinking Water: An Exploratory Survey

Abstract

Dental Fluorosis is a developmental defect in enamel formation. It is caused by excessive fluoride intake while teeth are developing; during this period (before teeth erupt) dental tissue is very sensitive to fluoride, typically during a child’s first eight years. The aim of this study is to provide the community with sufficient knowledge about the problem and suggest solutions for prevention from it in future. This study was conducted from November 2014 to January 2015 in Ghail Bawazeer district, Yemen. Subjects (N = 1739) from both sexes (967 male and 772 female) aged 9–16 years old were selected randomly from ten public and private primary schools. Oral questionnaire and clinical examination was conducted for each study sample; dental fluorosis assessment was performed according to Modified Dean Index. 10 water samples from different places were examined in YLNG lab by Metrohm 861 Advanced compact IC analyzer (Ion Chromatography) using EPA 300 method. Results showed that the water fluoride level of tap water in study area was above the optimal level, ranging from 2.34 to 2.46 mg/L and 52.4% of study sample used tap water for drinking. The overall prevalence of dental fluorosis in Ghail Bawazeer was 87.1%, where 13.3% were very mild, 34.6% mild, 18.9% moderate and 20.4% severe. Dental fluorosis is a major public health problem in Ghail Bawazeer district and quality of water seems to be the most important factor for its presence. So, it requires the attention of authorities at various levels of government and the community.

Keywords: Yemen, fluorosis, dental, oral health, drinking water

Cite this Article
Bagahizel Abdulla Mohammed. Prevalence of Dental Fluorosis in Area of Yemen with Above Optimal Level of Fluoride in Drinking Water: An Exploratory Survey. Research and Reviews: Journal of Dentistry (RRJoD). 2015; 6(2): 15–25p.