The effect of lithium (Li) in drinking water on caries prevalence in seven Texas towns was investigated. Children (life-long residents) aged 12-14 years were examined for caries prevalence, as DMFS, in towns with drinking water Li concentrations ranging from 0.0 to 165μg/L and fluoride (F) concentrations ranging from 0.20 to 1.94mgl L. A significant negative relationship was found between F in drinking water and DMFS. When corrected for the F contribution, Li in water supplies showed a positive correlation with DMFS.
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