Clinical Severity of Dental Fluorosis and Associated Risk Factors Among a Group of Children in Rural Region, Dendera Center in Egypt

Fluoride has a dual impact, it can be beneficial for dental health when consumed at optimal levels, but excessive intake can lead to a condition known as dental fluorosis (DF).

Dental fluorosis, which is particularly common among children and young individuals, is a developmental enamel defect caused by excessive fluoride exposure during the critical stages of tooth formation. This condition affects both the appearance and structure of the enamel.

The severity of dental fluorosis depends on various factors, including fluoride concentration in drinking water, daily intake, duration of exposure, and climatic conditions.

Epidemiological studies indicate that fluorosis can affect individuals across different age groups, with cases ranging from mild dental fluorosis to severe skeletal fluorosis. Children are particularly vulnerable to its harmful effects, which are often irreversible.

In rural areas, groundwater serves as the primary source of drinking water due to limited access to treated water supplies.

This dependence on groundwater increases the risk of prolonged fluoride exposure, particularly among children, whose developing teeth are more susceptible to fluorosis.

While several studies have documented the prevalence of dental fluorosis globally, there is a lack of data on its prevalence in rural areas of Upper Egypt, where groundwater is a key water source.

This knowledge gap highlights the need for localized research to assess the extent of the issue and develop targeted interventions.

Therefore, a cross-sectional study will be conducted to determine the prevalence and severity of dental fluorosis and identify associated risk factors among children in a rural area of the Dendera district, Qena governorate, Upper Egypt.

Inclusion criteria

• Children age range from 8 to 12 years.
• Children have lived in the area of the study since birth.
• Teeth to be examined should not be covered with fillings or braces.

Exclusion criteria

• Parents or children who refuse to participate in the study.
• Ethical consideration.