Fluctuations in tap water fluoride levels: a potential problem for practitioners.

Weekly water samples were obtained from the tap water at the Dental Branch of the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Analysis of these water samples showed significant fluctuations in fluoride levels from 1988 to 1991. This inconsistency in water fluoride content makes it very difficult for health care providers to prescribe and maintain an optimal fluoride supplementation to children. Based on results from this study, more rigorous surveillance and monitoring of water fluoridation in Houston is recommended.