Recomendaciones sobre el uso de fluoruros para prevenir y controlar la caries dental en los Estados unidos / Recommendations on the use of fluoride to prevent and control dental caries in the United States of America

ABSTRACT

The widespread use of fluoride has been fundamental in reducing the prevalence and severity of dental caries in the United States of America and in other developed countries. When used appropriately, fluoride is safe and effective in preventing and controlling dental caries. Today, nearly all the residents of the United States are in some measure exposed to fluoride, which can come from multiple sources. This document is based on a report prepared by a working group assembled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the United States. The report details recommendations on fluoride use to prevent and control caries in the United States, but some aspects of the report could also be valid for other countries. Frequent exposure to small amounts of fluoride on a daily basis is the best way to reduce the risk of caries in all age groups. Therefore, it is recommended that all people drink water with an optimal fluoride concentration and that they brush their teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Individuals with a high risk of caries may need additional fluoride sources. These recommendations attempt to provide dentists and other health professionals, public health professionals, and the general public with guidelines for fluoride use so that there is maximum protection against caries but without increasing the risk of enamel fluorosis, and with an efficient use of available resources. The recommendations are divided into four major groups 1) public health and clinical practice, 2) self-care or individuals, 3) consumer-product industries and professional health care organizations and public health agencies, and 4) new research. Adopting these recommendations could reduce even further the prevalence of dental caries in the United States and save both public and private resources