Fluoride monitoring in drinking water and its relevance to oral health in Córdoba, Argentina

Abstract

Objectives: To determine fluoride (F) concentrations in public drinking water supplies from different localities in the province of Córdoba and to analyze their distribution in relation to levels associated with dental caries prevention and fluorosis risk.

Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in 50 localities across the province of Córdoba, Argentina. Household tap water samples were collected in plastic containers and stored at 4°C until analysis. Fluoride concentration was determined using a fluoride ion-selective electrode, with all measurements performed in triplicate. Results were expressed as mean ± standard deviation.

Results: Fluoride concentrations showed marked variability, ranging from 0.106 ± 0.001 mg/L to 3.774± 0.32 mg/L. According to the range recommended by the World Health Organization (0.5–1.0 mg/L), 10 localities presented concentrations below the recommended levels, potentially limiting the preventive effect against dental caries. Nineteen localities exhibited fluoride concentrations within the optimal range for oral health promotion, whereas 21 localities showed concentrations above 1 mg/L, which are associated with an increased risk of dental fluorosis and, in cases of prolonged exposure, skeletal fluorosis.

Conclusions: Fluoride distribution in drinking water across the province of Córdoba is heterogeneous and reflects the influence of local geological factors. These findings highlight the importance of systematic water quality monitoring as a tool for the prevention of oral diseases, enabling the optimization of fluoride benefits while reducing the risk of fluorosis in the population.