An Epidemiological and Public Health Study on Dental Caries Caused by Fluoride: A Review

Fluoride is recognized globally for its dual role in oral health preventing dental caries at optimal levels while causing dental and skeletal fluorosis when consumed in excess. In several regions of India, particularly tribal and rural belts, naturally high fluoride concentrations in groundwater pose significant public health challenges. Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, predominantly inhabited by tribal populations, is one such fluoride-endemic area. The present review critically synthesizes epidemiological evidence on fluoride exposure, dental caries, and dental fluorosis in Bastar and comparable regions. It explores groundwater fluoride contamination, oral health status, socioeconomic vulnerability, dietary patterns, and community awareness, highlighting the paradoxical coexistence of dental caries and fluorosis. The review also discusses public health implications and preventive strategies relevant to fluoride-affected tribal regions.