TRACE ELEMENTS & DENTAL CARIES

by Abhinav Singh

Teeth are reported to be suitable indicators of trace element exposure for a wide range of elements. Since teeth accumulate a variety of trace elements, it is interesting to study the elemental distribution in human teeth to evaluate the effect on dental caries. Although there was an early start with fluoride, dental research had not considered other trace elements. Trace elements other than fluoride may account for significant differences in caries prevalence observed in the inhabitants of communities whose diets, living conditions, racial stock and climate are similar. Trace elements may reduce or potentiate caries rates; as in populations ingesting foods and water with a high selenium, copper and cadmium content, are more prone to dental caries; high molybdenum levels in soils or drinking water have been correlated with reduced caries.

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Published January 1, 2011