The proper amount of fluoride helps prevent and control tooth decay in children and adults. Fluoride works both while the teeth are developing and every day after the teeth have emerged through the gums. Fluoride consumed during tooth development can also result in a range of visible changes to the enamel surface of the tooth. These changes have been broadly termed dental fluorosis. This blog will discuss dental fluorosis causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Dental fluorosis is a condition that affects the teeth that result from overexposure to fluoride during the developmental stages of teeth. It’s a cosmetic condition that affects the tooth enamel causing white or brownish discoloration and small pits on the teeth’ surface. The severity of the condition varies based on the amount of fluoride intake, duration of exposure, and age at which a person was exposed to fluoride.
Causes of Dental Fluorosis
Dental fluorosis is caused by an excessive intake of fluoride, frequently observed in the following ways:
- Using fluoride-containing dental products such as toothpaste and mouthwash. A major cause of fluorosis is the inappropriate use of fluoride-containing dental products such as toothpaste and mouth rinses. Sometimes, children enjoy the taste of fluoridated toothpaste so much that they swallow it instead of spitting it out.
Drinking excessive amounts of water that contain fluoride. Fluoride occurs naturally in water. Natural fluoride levels above the currently recommended range for drinking water may increase the risk of severe fluorosis. In communities where natural levels exceed two parts per million, the CDC recommends that parents give children water from other sources.
- Fluoride supplements. Taking a higher-than-prescribed amount of a fluoride supplement during early childhood can cause it. You can also have it when taking a fluoride supplement when fluoridated drinking water or fluoride-fortified fruit juices and soft drinks already provide the right amount.
- Occupational exposure to fluoride (like at fertilizer or aluminum factories). The primary route of fluoride exposure is via inhalation. Accidental ingestion may be possible, especially when eating or smoking with contaminated hands. Inhalation of fluoride may lead to respiratory tract irritation, coughing, and choking, and may cause respiratory depression.
Symptoms of Dental Fluorosis
Dental fluorosis is a cosmetic condition that affects the teeth’ appearance, leading to the following symptoms:
- White dots or streaks on teeth, especially in mild cases
- Brown stains and pitting in moderate cases
- Severe cases can lead to highly noticeable discoloration with rough and pitted enamel
Very mild and mild forms of dental fluorosis — Most cases are mild and do not permanently damage teeth, and severe cases of fluorosis are uncommon. When it’s mild, the teeth have scattered white flecks, occasional white spots, frosty edges, or fine, lacy chalk-like lines. These changes are barely noticeable and difficult to see except by a dental health care professional.
Moderate and severe forms of dental fluorosis — Severe fluorosis can compromise dental health. Teeth have larger white-turning brown spots on tooth enamel and, in the rare, severe form, rough, permanent, and pitted surfaces.
Diagnosis of Dental Fluorosis
A dentist can diagnose dental fluorosis by examining the teeth’ appearance and history of fluoride exposure. In some cases, the dentist may take X-rays to examine the underlying structure of teeth.
Treatment of Dental Fluorosis
The treatment of dental fluorosis depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, no treatment is needed. However, in cases of moderate to severe fluorosis, the following dental treatments may be required:
Teeth whitening: It effectively removes surface stains but may not be useful for dark brown stains.
- Bonding: During this procedure, your dentist uses tooth-colored composite resin to cover up fluorosis stains. Your teeth are then shaped and polished for natural-looking results.
- Veneers: In severe cases, veneers can cover the entire tooth’s surface, providing complete coverage and enhancing the smile’s appearance. A thin resin is applied to the tooth’s surface, effectively covering the stains and making the teeth look natural.
- Dental crowns. Like veneers, crowns are custom-made. However, this type of dental restoration fits over your entire tooth. Your dentist will need to remove some of your natural enamel so the crown fits properly.
- Enamel microabrasion. Your dentist removes a small enamel layer from your teeth during this procedure. This helps eliminate many fluorosis stains. Often, your dentist will follow enamel microabrasion with teeth whitening to make the color of your teeth even more uniform.
Prevention of Dental Fluorosis
Preventing dental fluorosis starts by limiting fluoride intake to avoid excessive exposure. Here are some tips to prevent dental fluorosis:
Infant to 3 Years Old:
- Breastfeed your child. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the exclusive use of human milk for all infants (except for the few for whom breastfeeding is determined to be harmful) until they are six months of age, then adding solid foods and continuing to breastfeed until the child is at least 12 months old.
- If your baby is primarily fed infant formula, consult your doctor on the best type of formula for your baby.
- When your child’s teeth start coming in, brush them thoroughly twice daily (morning and night) or as directed by a dentist or physician.
- Supervise children’s brushing to ensure that they use the appropriate amount of toothpaste, which is no more than a smear or the size of a grain of rice.
Three years and older:
Limit your child’s consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages.
- Use a minimal amount of toothpaste and mouthwash while brushing.
- Supervise children during brushing and encourage them to spit out the toothpaste afterwards.
- Avoid unpurified water sources, especially if they contain fluoride.
- Talk to a dentist about alternative fluoride sources if you are at high risk for tooth decay.
To reduce your child’s risk for fluorosis, be aware of how much fluoride they’re exposed to. Find out about water fluoridation laws in your area, or test your well water for fluoride levels. While you don’t want your child exposed to too much fluoride, you also want to ensure they get enough while their teeth develop. The proper amount of fluoride is important for your child’s oral health.
Conclusion
Dental fluorosis is a cosmetic condition that affects a person’s smile. Although it does not pose significant health risks, its impact on appearance can lead to self-consciousness and reduced confidence. The best way to prevent dental fluorosis is by limiting fluoride intake and seeking efficient dental advice for treatment. We hope this blog has shed some light on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dental fluorosis.
References:
https://www.cdc.gov/fluoridation/faqs/dental_fluorosis/index.htm
https://www.webmd.com/children/fluorosis-symptoms-causes-treatments
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23227-fluorosis