Journal of Dental Research, Vol 71, 1244-1248, Copyright © 1992 by International & American Associations for Dental Research Online Journals
The level and timing of systemic exposure to fluoride with respect to caries resistance
J. A. Hargreaves
University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
Material related to water fluoridation and fluoride availability has been
examined for changing patterns of fluoride intake by humans over recent
years. The difficulty of separating systemic and topical fluoride action
from water and foods from that found in fluoride agents used in preventive
treatment programs is discussed. Recommendations are made that water
fluoridation is a well-proven program and should be continued, but that
fluoride supplementation programs under the control of the individual
should be carefully evaluated and, if used, should be restricted to periods
after the secretory stage of enamel formation is normally finished for
anterior teeth, with supplements commenced during the pre-eruption
maturation period and continuing until permanent tooth eruption is
complete. Although supplements can also give a topical source to the teeth,
depending on the way the supplement is consumed and the duration of time it
is available in the mouth, other methods of topical fluoride provision are
endorsed, and these should continue through life. It is suggested, in
respect of epidemiology studies, that data collected before the
availability of fluoride dentifrices in 1971 should be re-examined.
