Presence of Enamel Fluorosis in Libyan Children

The optimal concentration is defined as that which gives maximal protection against dental caries, with minimal clinically observable dental fluorosis (Dunning 7). This level is determined according to the climate and the resultant drinking habits (Newborn 6). Cawson 1 stated that mottling of enamel is the most frequently seen and most reliable sign of excessive quantities of fluoride in the drinking water. Dean 8 concluded that a fluoride level of above 1ppm does not significantly reduce caries beyond the optimal effect of 1ppm.

Different classifications have been introduce to score dental fluorosis. (Dean 9, Al -Alousi 10, Thylstrup & Fejerskov 11, (Fejerskov, 12). and the DDE index by FDI 1982). Aira Sabokseir 13, concluded, fluorosis indices, if used alone, could result in misdiagnosis of dental fluorosis and information about adverse health-related conditions linked to DDEs (Developmental Defects of Enamel) at specific positions on teeth could help to differentiate between genuine fluorosis and fluorosis-resembling defects.Various figures for mouth prevalence of enamel fluorosis have been reported by different investigators. 39.2% by Al-Alousi 10, for Welsh children, 32% by Akpata 14 for Nigerian children. Using the DDE index of the FDI (1982), Al alousi 10 defective enamel of 48.9% in children from south Wales. In England,Tabari 15 found the prevalence of fluorosis was 54% in the fluoridated area and 23% in the fluoride-deficient area. In Iran the prevalence of fluorosis was 61% (Azami-Aghdash et al., 16).