Abstract

OBJECTIVE:  To study the effects caused by uptake of different levels of calcium to dental fluorosis in rats.

METHODS:  Weanling rats were raised on water containing 0.1 mol/L fluoride and food containing low, normal and high levels of calcium for 2 months. The concentration of fluoride in enamel was analysed by F-ion-selective electrode. The microradiographic examination and light-density analysis were performed. The enamel structure was examined under SEM.

RESULTS:  The more calcium was ingested, the lower level of fluoride amount in enamel was observed (P < 0.01). With increasing food calcium ingestion, the light density value was decreasing, and the level of enamel mineralization was increasing (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS:  With increasing food calcium ingestion during the development of teeth, the level of dental fluorosis is decreasing. The calcium supply is effective in protection from fluoride toxicity to a certain extent.