engleski

Fluoride Content in beverages made for infants and young children in Croatia

Introduction The role of fluoride in dental caries prevention is well known. On the other hand, excessive fluoride intake during enamel formation of permanent teeth can cause dental fluorosis, hypomineralisation of enamel characterized by greater surface porosity. Current studies showed that fluoride content in beverages may be highly variable. The aim of this study was to determine the fluoride content in beverages made for infants and young children commercially available in Croatia. Materials and methods 18 juices, 8 instant teas and 7 filter bag teas were evaluated. All beverages were made for children under age of 1 year. Instant and filter bag teas were prepared according to manufacturer recommendations. Analyses were performed in triplicate with the use of ion-selective fluoride electrode. Results Fluoride concentration in most beverages did not exceed 0.1 mg F/L. Only one sample of juice had fluoride concentration over 0.1 mg F/L (0.126). Range of fluoride concentration in juices was 0.012-0.126 mg F/L ; in instant teas prepared with boiling water 0.021-0.028 mg F/L and with room temperature water 0.033-0.036 mg F/L ; in filter bag teas 0.021-0.035 mg F/L. Conclusion Even though fluoride concentration range of tested samples was in safe range it is recommended to list fluoride content on beverages intended for infants and young children. Considering all other sources of fluoride, decision about fluoridation treatment should be designed having in mind the amount of fluoride intake from beverages and their possible cumulative influence, so the optimal caries preventive effect can be obtained and the risk of dental fluorosis reduced.

infant beverages ; fluoride

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