Month/Year of Graduation

5-2025

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department

Biology

First Advisor

Dr. Karen Murch-Shafer

Abstract

This study examined age-related differences in dentists’ perceptions of fluoride use, effectiveness, and risks. Eight Midwest dentists (four early-career, four experienced) participated in interviews with demographic, quantitative, and open-ended questions. While all recognized fluoride’s importance, younger dentists emphasized its benefits and utilized it more themselves than older dentists, two of whom expressed concerns about fluoride exposure and fluorosis, a hypomineralization disorder that occurs during enamel development (Berg et al., 2011). One dentist cited potential neurological risks, including effects on the pineal gland and links to Alzheimer’s Disease. Despite these differences, all but one viewed fluoride as a cost-effective preventive measure of dental caries. Findings suggest that age, personal research, clinical experience, and concerns about long-term effects like fluorosis influence fluoride perceptions, underscoring the need for larger studies, particularly in states debating water fluoridation policies.

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