What is fluorosis and symptoms?

Symptoms of fluorosis range from tiny white specks or streaks that may be unnoticeable to dark brown stains and rough, pitted enamel that is difficult to clean. Teeth that are unaffected by fluorosis are smooth and glossy. They should also be a pale creamy white.

Can fluorosis be treated?

Most cases of fluorosis are mild and do not need treatment. In more severe cases, whitening of the teeth, veneers, or other cosmetic dentistry techniques can be used to correct any permanent discoloration. Once a child reaches the age of 8 they are no longer at risk for developing fluorosis.

What causes enamel fluorosis?

Dental fluorosis is a condition that causes changes in the appearance of tooth enamel. It may result when children regularly consume fluoride during the teeth-forming years, age 8 and younger.

Is dental fluorosis permanent?

People with fluorosis are relatively resistant to dental caries (tooth decay caused by bacteria), although there may be cosmetic concern. In moderate to severe fluorosis, teeth are weakened and suffer permanent physical damage….

Why does fluorosis occur in the first 8 years of life?

Fluorosis is a cosmetic condition that affects the teeth. It’s caused by overexposure to fluoride during the first eight years of life. This is the time when most permanent teeth are being formed. After the teeth come in, the teeth of those affected by fluorosis may appear mildly discolored.

How is fluorosis caused by overexposure to fluoride?

How Widespread Is Fluorosis? Fluorosis is a cosmetic condition that affects the teeth. It’s caused by overexposure to fluoride during the first eight years of life. This is the time when most permanent teeth are being formed. After the teeth come in, the teeth of those affected by fluorosis may appear mildly discolored.

What can be done to improve the appearance of fluorosis?

Such techniques may include: Tooth whitening and other procedures to remove surface stains; note that bleaching teeth may temporarily worsen the appearance of fluorosis. Veneers, which are custom-made shells that cover the front of the teeth to improve their appearance; these are used in cases of severe fluorosis.

How is the severity of fluorosis rated by a dentist?

Since the 1930s, dentists have rated the severity of fluorosis using the following categories: Questionable. The enamel shows slight changes ranging from a few white flecks to occasional white spots. Very mild. Small opaque paper-white areas are scattered over less than 25% of the tooth surface. Mild.