Fluoride Content of Drinking Waters in Kerman/Iran

Introduction: It has been proved that sufficient amount of fluoride in drinking water can decrease the rate of dental caries. The aim of this study was to determine fluoride content of drinking waters in the 8 cities of Kerman province as well as 11 types of mineral water sold in supermarkets of Kerman. Method: Fluoride contents of 42 drinking water samples belonged to 8 cities of Kerman province and 11 brands of mineral water sold in Kerman city was determined by ponentiometry method and using specific electrode of fluoride ion. Results: Mean Fluoride content of drinking water was 0.17 ppm in Kerman, 0.47ppm in Zarand, 0.39ppm in Rafsanjan, 0.49ppm in Jiroft, 0.43 ppm in Bam, 0.39ppm in Sirjan, 0.44ppm in Kahnooj and 0.41ppm in Baft. Fluoride content of studied mineral waters was in the range of 0.04 – 0.27ppm. Conclusion: Considering the temperature of these cities, it seems that the fluoride content of drinking waters is lower than the recommended range for preventing dental caries.