Analysis of Fluoride Concentrations in Public Water Supplies in a Municipality with a Complex Water Supply System
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21270/archi.v14i12.6711Keywords:
Fluoridation, Dentistry, Disease Prevention, Dental CariesAbstract
Introduction: Fluoridation of public water supplies stands out as a safe, comprehensive, effective, and efficient method for the prevention and control of dental caries. Objective: To monitor fluoride levels in the public water supply of a municipality with a complex water supply system. Methods: This is an observational, longitudinal, and quantitative study conducted in a municipality with a water distribution system composed of different water intake sources with varying natural fluoride concentrations, including: a water treatment plant, deep wells, semi-artesian wells, a mixture of different intake sources, and alternative water sources from wells located in local factories. Water samples were collected at predetermined sampling points for each water intake source in the municipality. Analyses were performed in duplicate, from September 2024 to August 2025, using the potentiometric method with an ion analyzer coupled to a specific electrode for fluoride. Results: Of the 500 samples analyzed, 83.40% (n = 417) presented fluoride levels that offered maximum benefit in preventing dental caries. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) in fluoride levels when comparing the different water sources. Conclusion: The majority of water samples presented fluoride levels that offered maximum benefit in preventing dental caries and a low risk of developing dental fluorosis.
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