Fluoride Action Network

Abstract

OBJECTIVES:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the putative association between the presence of the COL1A2 gene A/C polymorphism and the severity of dental fluorosis in a sample exposed to high concentrations of fluoride.

METHODS:  A cross-sectional study was carried out that included 80 children residing in a community with high concentrations of fluoride in the drinking water. To determine whether the presence of this polymorphism and dental fluorosis are associated, the presence of the dental fluorosis was considered to be a response variable, while fluoride concentration in water and urine was designated as independent variables. In addition, the children’s parents completed questionnaires with general information about drinking and cooking with tap water, consumption of milk and soft drinks, and other putative risk factors.

RESULTS:  Individuals with the polymorphism had nonsignificant odds (OR = 2.24; 95% CI = 0.55-9.02) of having dental fluorosis at higher exposures to fluoride. This finding was similar in individuals without the polymorphism (OR = 1.65; 95% CI = 0.44-6.17).

CONCLUSIONS:  The presence of polymorphism in the COL1A2 gene was not associated with the severity of dental fluorosis.