Abstract

Dental fluorosis, also referred to as Colorado brown stain or mottled enamel is a condition resulting from excessive intake of fluoride during the developmental stages of teeth, usually between the ages of zero to eight. It is characterized by the appearance of white streaks, spots, or, in severe cases, brown stains and surface pitting on the enamel. This condition is often linked to the consumption of water with high fluoride levels. This research is aimed at measuring the fluoride levels in soil and groundwater sources and assessing the level of social damages of the fluorosis among the inhabitants. The study was conducted in Kaltungo Local Government Area, Gombe State, Nigeria. A total of 27 samples of soil, well water, and borehole water were collected. Results indicate that drinking water was identified as the major source of fluoride and that fluoride levels in hand-dug borehole and well water in places of Poshere, Kalargu, Ture, Kulishi, Lapan, Zing, Zango all have fluoride concentrations below 1.5 mg/L which is a recommended standard by WHO. However, Lampaditai has fluoride level of 3.19 a concentration higher than WHO recommendation. The severity of dental fluorosis may vary according to location and source.