FLUOR DAN KESEHATAN GIGI

Most fluoride is found in the form of chemical compounds, and the availability of free fluoride ions in soils and water is varied. Laboratory research suggests that fluoride is most effective in caries prevention when a low level of fluoride is constantly maintained in the oral cavity. Fluoride controls effectively, it acts in several different ways. Fluoride is being used widely on a global scale. The estimation of  number of people throughout the world using various types of fluoride therapy and preventive measures, they are the clinical topical fluorides (20 millions), mouth-rinses (20 millions), drops/tablets (20 millions), salt fluoridation (40 millions). water fluoridation (210 millions), and fluoridated toothpaste (500 millions). The study results of water fluoridation in USA, New Zealand, Canada, and Netherlands consequently reduces about 50% caries in community. The study of fluor tablet 1 ppm/day at primary school children in Indonesia after one year study result show that fluor tablet can inhibit the caries experience 0.2 person/year, and in control group shows the increasing of caries experience 0.8 person/year, and there is no dental fluorosis found. There are some undesirable side-effects, however, that can accompany the desirable outcome of reduced caries in the community. Experience has shown that it is not possible to achieve effective fluoride­ based caries prevention without the development of some degree of dental fluorosis, a defect of enamel caused by excess fluoride disrupting the developing enamel prior to tooth eruption. This means that whatever methods are chosen to maintain the low level of fluoride in the mouth, the results will be accompanied by some degree of dental fluorosis. Dental public health administrators should be aware of the total fluoride exposure in the population before introducing any additional fluoride programme for caries prevention, and the cost-effentiveness of such programmes should be carefully considered.