Introduction:

Dental fluorosis is an endemic pathology caused by the excessive ingestion of fluorides that can produce an alteration during the development of the enamel and is considered an important public health problema because it affects the oral and systemic health of the population.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to determine the frequency and levels of dental fluorosis in school children between 12 and 15 years of age belonging to two educational institutions in Lima, Peru.

Method:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out, the sample consisted of 252 students between 12 and 15 years of age from two educational centers in Lima.

Sampling was by systematic selection of sample elements.

Dental fluorosis was evaluated using the Dean Index. To determine the frequency and levels of dental fluorosis a clinical oral examination was carried out and a previously validated questionnaire was developed.

Results:

The frequency of dental fluorosis was 44.8% (n=113) affecting more males by 27.39% (n=69) and adolescents aged 13 years (15.1%). In relation to the levels of fluorosis, the “very mild” type predominated (34.9%).

An association was also found between the presence and level of fluorosis with the number of fluoride applications (p<0.05). In addition, Dean's community fluorosis index was reported to be 0.43.

Conclusions:

In the school population evaluated, the frequency of fluorosis was 44.8% and the predominant level of fluorosis was very mild. In addition, the community index was 0.43, which indicated a borderline level of public health importance. Therefore, it can be considered that the number of topical fluoride applications received by the population without adequate planning could become a risk factor for causing dental fluorosis.