PUNE: Highly contaminated water in seven districts of Maharashtra is causing an increase in number of dental fluorosis incidents.
Nanded, Chandrapur, Latur, Washim, Yavatmal, Beed, and Nagpur districts have been found to have several cases of this chronic condition caused by excessive intake of fluorine compounds. The condition can affect teeth and bones adversely.
The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Fluorosis (NPPCF) (2008) addresses the problem of fluorosis, mainly due to intake of high fluoride through drinking water.
As per the World Health Organization (WHO), ingestion of excess fluoride, most commonly in drinking water, can cause fluorosis.
Moderate amounts lead to dental effects, but long-term ingestion of large amounts can lead to potentially severe skeletal problems.
As per WHO, people affected by fluorosis are often exposed to multiple sources of fluoride, such as in food, water, air and excessive use of toothpaste. However, drinking water is typically the most significant source.
Sharing similar views, Dr Tanvi Kale, dentist, said that when permanent teeth develop in children, and they have a yellowish stain, it is the effect of fluorosis.
Kale said parts of Marathwada and Vidarbha report cases of fluorosis due to contamination of drinking water with fluorides.
“There are plenty of treatment modalities that can help with fluorosis. However, this problem never gets over. Hence making sure that the drinking water is clean is the best way. Also, people can use toothpaste with less quantity of Fluorides,” said Dr Kale.
Speaking to Sakal Times, Dr Nitin Bhagali, orthopedist from Pune, said that in X-rays, the bones look fine.
“If a patient is suffering from fluorosis, his bone actual feels like a chalk. This may lead to repeated fractures and in turn may cause damage to nerves and ligaments,” said Dr Bhagali.
SPREAD OF FLUOROSIS
- As per the National Health Profile 2019, along with Maharashtra there are other states which have reported cases of dental fluorosis.
- Under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Fluorosis (NPPCF), Rajasthan, Karanataka, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh have reported more than 10 districts in each state with fluorosis.
- Excess fluoride in water is harmful for bones. As per WHO, early symptoms of skeletal fluorosis, includes stiffness and pain in the joints. In severe cases, the bone structure may change and ligaments may calcify, with resulting impairment of muscles and pain.