Fluoride in groundwater and the incidence of dental fluorosis in Roomeshkan, western Lorestan province

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of high concentration of fluoride in drinking water on dental fluorosis by using the optimal dose of fluorine and its intake in different age groups. To assess the relationship between fluoride concentrations in drinking water and the incidence of fluorosis in study area, 19 groundwater samples as well as 19 soil samples have been collected to measure the fluoride content and acidity of soil respectively. The concentrations of fluoride of 42% water samples were higher than value recommended by World Health Organization. The optimal amount of fluoride in groundwater for study area is 0.71 mg/L. The estimated fluoride intake from drinking water is in the three age groups of adults, children and infants is 0.03, 0.09 and 0.21. However the minimum risk of 0.05 mg per kg per day calculated by Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. The optimal amount of fluoride in groundwater for study area is 0.71 mg/L. The estimated fluoride intake from drinking water is in the three age groups of adults, children and infants is 0.03, 0.09 and 0.21.