Association raises alarm over cases of teeth bleaching

NAIVASHA, KENYA: The Kenya Dental Association (KDA) has raised red flag over an increase in quacks and herbalists bleaching teeth in parts of the country. The association singled out Naivasha, Gilgil and parts of Nakuru as the most affected areas due the increased cases of fluorosis among water consumers. The increase in cases of fluorosis according to the association was the high levels of fluoride in water consumed in Naivasha and its environs. According to KDA national chairperson Dr Jane Wamai, cases of bleaching were on the increase as residents sought remedy due to their coloured teeth. She noted that some of the chemicals used were dangerous with many victims suffering from after effects following the dubious operations. "Some of the after effects are sensitive teeth and cases of bleeding gums and we are warning members of the public to be wary of these herbalists," she said. Speaking in Naivasha, Wamai said that there was urgent need to address the issue of high fluoride terming it as the cause of weak bones and coloured teeth. Reacting to this, Nakuru governor Kinuthia Mbugua said that his government had put in place long term measures in addressing the water problem. He said that plans were underway to seek fluoride-free water from the neighboring county of Nyandarua. Mbugua said that the county has identified a donor for the project whose feasibility study had been conducted ahead of the ground works. "We are deeply concerned by the issue of high fluoride in the water consumed in Naivasha but my government is addressing this," he said. Speaking after touring the new Keroche Breweries plant in Naivasha, the governor promised support for investors in the county. He was full of praise for the local investors adding that his government would provide conducive environment to all traders.