Impact of Fluoride Deficit on Dental Health in High Mountainous Regions of Georgia

Abstract

Oral Diseases have a significant role in global morbidity. Dental health is affected by both endogenous and exogenous
factors. One of the most important factors in caries development is the fluoride deficit. The aim of the research was to
study the rate intensity and prevalence of dental caries among the adult population of high mountainous regions of Georgia and their correlation with fluoride deficit in drinking water. The investigation was performed in high mountainous
villages of Georgian regions (Svaneti, Racha, Samegrelo). During the study, risk-factors of the caries development
were assessed, such as the hygiene of oral cavity, existence of general diseases, socioeconomic status, availability of
dental assistance, diet content, smoking and etc. In addition, the fluoride content in drinking water was assessed. According to our investigation, it was detected, that together with such risk factors as oral hygiene, general health condition,
socioeconomic status and etc., the fluoride deficit in drinking water, plays an important role in dental caries development