1.Prevalence of Dental Fluorosis and Its Associated Factors After Cessation of Water Fluoridation
Faizah Abdul Karim ; Zamros Yuzadi Mohd Yusof ; Nor Azlida Mohd Nor
Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences 2021;17(No.1):68-76
Introduction: Water fluoridation (WF) was ceased in the state of Pahang, Malaysia, in July 2012. Any changes in
fluoride exposure during childhood can influence the development of fluorosis. Thus, this study aimed to compare
the prevalence of fluorosis between WF-ceased and WF-continued areas in Malaysia, and its associated factors
among 7 and 12-year-old children. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among children in WF-ceased
and WF areas (n=1211). The 12-year-olds in WF-ceased areas were exposed to WF between 4.5 to 6.5 years before
cessation, and it was hypothesised they would have similar fluorosis prevalence as their counterparts who lived
in WF areas. The 7-year olds were born during the cessation period. Examination of fluorosis was performed by a
calibrated dentist using Dean’s criteria and a parental questionnaire was utilised to collect information about demographics and exposure to fluoride. Results: Fluorosis prevalence (Dean’s≥2) was significantly lower among children
in WF-ceased areas than WF areas (p< 0.001). Intra-area comparison indicated that the 12-year olds have higher
prevalence of fluorosis than the 7-year-olds, except for anterior fluorosis scores among those in WF areas. The majority of fluorosis cases were very mild in both areas. Simple logistic regression indicated that duration of exposure to
WF, age, mother’s income and education, age started toothbrushing with toothpaste, and frequency of toothbrushing
were associated with fluorosis. Conclusions: Fluorosis prevalence decreased following water fluoridation cessation.
The null hypothesis that 12-year-olds in both areas would have similar prevalence of fluorosis was rejected. Several
factors were associated with fluorosis.