Mean Fluoride Concentration in Drinking Water Sources of a Municipality: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Fluoride is essential for the growth and development of teeth and bone. Excess or less fluoride consumption can have harmful effects on our bodies. Fluoride level of 0.5-1.5 mg/l is said to be optimized according to the World Health Organization. The level of fluoride varies among the different geographical regions and water sources. It is essential to find out the fluoride content of various water sources used for drinking purposes. The aim of this study was to find the mean concentration of fluoride in drinking water sources of a municipality. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in a Municipality. The study was conducted from 1 December 2021 to 30 December 2021 after receiving ethical approval from the Ethical Review Board (Reference number: 1134). Water samples were collected and the fluoride content was estimated using 2-parasulfophenylazo-1,8-dihydroxy-3,6-napthalene-disulfonate colorimetric method. The data collected from the laboratory were calculated and presented in the form of a table. Point estimate and 95% Confidence Interval were calculated. Results: The mean value of fluoride content in 160 collected water samples was 0.369±0.275 mg/l (0.33-0.41, 95% Confidence Interval). Among the different wards, the fluoride content was 0.708±0.27 mg/l in ward number 12 followed by a fluoride content of 0.57±0.19 mg/l in ward number 5. Conclusions: In this study, the mean fluoride levels were lower when compared with similar studies conducted in similar settings. The levels were lower than that recommended by the World Health Organization. The various controlled methods of fluoridation have to be quickly initiated. Other means of fluoride consumption, like the use of fluoridated toothpaste, has to be recommended.

Effect of drinking water fluoride on gingivitis and caries: A study in peat and non-peat land: A comparative cross-sectional study

“…[ 8 ] Surface water has a low fluoride content, depending on geographical conditions, while ground water has a varying fluoride content. [ 9 ] In India, borehole water contains a fluoride concentration of 0.9 ppm, compared to company water of 0.48 ppm and bottled water of 0.2 ppm. [ 10 ] Regular consumption of fluoridated water reduces the prevalence of dental caries.…”

“…Fluoridated water can reduce dental caries by 50-70%, reducing the risk of dental caries in primary teeth. [ 9 15 , 16 ] Fluorine has F- ions, which naturally occur in the form of fluoride molecules. Surface water generally has relatively low fluoride contents, below 1.5 mg/L, but groundwater may have high fluoride levels.…”