Assessing the Effect of Fluoride on Oral Health Status among the General Population Residing in High and Low Fluoride Blocks in Namakkal District, Tamilnadu, India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Aim:The aim of this study is to assess the effect of fluoride on oral health status among the general population residing in high and low levels of fluoride blocks in Namakkal district of Tamilnadu, India.

Materials and method:A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the impact of fluoride on oral health among people of WHO index age groups  residing in the Namakkal district of Tamilnadu, India. The sample size was estimated to be 600based on the multistage random sampling method. A pre-tested structured questionnaire was used to collect the demographic data and oral hygiene practices of the people. Oral Health Assessment form, WHO proforma 2013 (Adult and children) was used for assessing Dental caries and Enamel fluorosis.

Results:The prevalence of enamel fluorosis in high fluoride block Paramathi is 77.0%, and Kabilar malai is 75.0%. The prevalence of dental caries in high fluoride block Paramathi is 58.0%, and high fluoride block Kabilar malai is 58.0%. The prevalence of enamel fluorosis in low fluoride block Mohanur is 68.0%, and low fluoride block Sendamangalam is 62.0%. The prevalence of dental caries in low fluoride block Mohanur is 87.0%, and low fluoride block Sendamangalam is 89.0%.As per the study results, the prevalence of enamel fluorosis is high in high fluoride blocks, and the dental caries prevalence is high in low fluoride blocks.

Conclusion:Public health awareness should be given by the public health officials of the community to the people about the harmful and beneficial effects of Fluoride.