Dental fluorosis prevalence in Nigerian school-aged children linked with food types

Abstract

Dental fluorosis is a global public health problem. In Nigeria, 11.4% of the population is impacted by this disorder. Dental fluorosis caused by consistent exposures to high fluoride during tooth development, is linked to the development of a variety of psychological and physiological problems. These include dental aesthetics, reduction in intelligence and skeletal changes. The purpose of this quantitative, cross-sectional study was to examine the prevalence of dental fluorosis in rural Nigerian children and its association with common food types. A multilevel theoretical model was used to develop possible fluoride exposure pathways, such as food habits, family SES, and dental care, as well as factors in the environment. The study focused on 2 main research questions: What is the prevalence rate of fluorosis in school children in Nigeria? Is it associated with the fluoride content of common food types in the community? Data was collected through the administration of two surveys; on children aged 5 to15 years, and their parent/guardian. Chi-square and regression analysis tests were used to test for possible associations. The study findings showed a fluorosis prevalence rate of 86.6% in the 269 school children surveyed, and children fluorosis was significantly associated with the family SES. This study’s possible impact includes raising awareness to the problem and the possible ways to resolve it, such as through, information on possible food types with high fluoride content and the provision of a supportive social environment like improved dental care services.