What is Dental Fluorosis?
Fluorosis is a crippling disease resulted from deposition of fluorides in the hard and soft tissues of body. It is a public health problem caused by excess intake of fluoride through drinking water/food products/industrial pollutants over a long period. Ingestion of excess fluoride, most commonly in drinking-water affects the teeth and bones.
Dental fluorosis affects children and discolours and disfigures the teeth. Ingestion of fluoride after six years of age will not cause dental fluorosis. The teeth could be chalky white and may have white, yellow, brown or black spots or streaks on the enamel surface. Discolouration is away from the gums and bilaterally symmetrical.
Clinical dental fluorosis is evident by staining and pitting of the teeth. In more severe cases all the enamel may be damaged.
What are the causes for dental fluorosis?
Fluorosis is caused by excessive intake of fluorides from multiple sources such as in food, water, air (due to gaseous industrial waste), and excessive use of toothpaste. However, drinking water is the most significant source.
What are the treatment options for dental fluorosis?
- Tooth whitening for mild fluorosis cases
- Composites
- Veneers
How to prevent dental fluorosis?
Fluorosis can be prevented by avoiding excessive intake of fluoride by individuals / community. Excessive fluoride intake and its adverse effects can be minimized or prevented by adapting following measures:
- By using alternative water sources,
- By removing excessive fluoride from drinking water,
- By improving the nutritional status of population/individuals at risk.