What is Dental Fluorosis?
Dental fluorosis is a change in the appearance of the tooth’s enamel surface. The most common type of fluorosis does not affect the function of the tooth and does not cause pain.
Most cases of fluorosis that we see are mild and appear as white, lacy markings on the tooth’s enamel. To the untrained eye, this is very difficult to see. Severe fluorosis is quite rare. In this instance, we often find the enamel pitted with brown spots and stains.
Here’s everything you need to know about fluorosis.
Talk to the team at Cambridge City Dental to learn more about Dental Fluorosis.
What Causes Dental Fluorosis?
The simple answer to this question is due to an over-consumption of fluoride over a period of time when teeth are forming, but before they appear in the mouth. This takes place before 8 years of age. Fluorosis is most commonly caused from the fluoride in toothpaste when children are brushing their teeth. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to supervise children when brushing teeth to ensure they don’t use too much fluoridated toothpaste or mouthwash. It’s also important to ensure your child spits out any toothpaste after brushing, rather than allowing them to swallow the excess. Toothpastes for children are available that have a regulated dose of fluoride.
How Can I Determine if My Child Has Dental Fluorosis?
As there are many possible reasons why teeth change in appearance, if you’re ever concerned about fluorosis, it’s best to have your child’s teeth checked by a dentist. It’s also recommended that children start visiting a dentist by their first birthday as the risk of dental fluorosis diminishes by the time a child turns 8 years old.
How Much Fluoride Should My Child Have in Order to Protect His/Her Teeth Without the Risk of Dental Fluorosis?
Children who consume a well-balanced diet, drink water regularly, and use fluoridated dental products correctly will get the necessary fluoride levels to maintain healthy teeth. It’s not necessary to monitor water or food consumption, since your child will ingest low levels of fluoride from these sources. However, It is important to ensure that your child does not swallow toothpaste or mouth rinse as these contain much higher concentrations of fluoride.
Is There Anything I Can Do to Protect My Child's Teeth without Causing Dental Fluorosis?
The following steps can help protect your child’s teeth from dental fluorosis:
Children younger than 3 should use only a smear of fluoridated toothpaste.
Limit tooth brushing to 2 times a day for this age group.
Children aged 3-6 years should use a slightly larger “pea-sized” amount of fluoridated toothpaste.
Make sure your child is supervised and help your child brush his/her teeth. Most young children will instinctively swallow water, but they should be encouraged to spit out excess toothpaste.
Keep all dental hygiene products out of reach to avoid accidental ingestion.
Is Dental Fluorosis Permanent?
Whilst fluorosis generally doesn’t cause permanent teeth damage, it can permanently affect the appearance of the affected teeth. In most cases, fluorosis doesn’t cause any dental decay or damage. Dental Fluorosis can be treated in a variety of ways, however often it’s not necessarily required as most children will only experience mild fluorosis. Severe fluorosis can be treated. Treatments often consist of cosmetic dental work and services. These include:
Teeth whitening to remove any brown stains
Dental Crowns and Veneers
Dental bonding
What’s the Difference Between Mild and Severe Fluorosis?
Mild dental fluorosis often goes unnoticed by patients as it appears as white lacy markings. However, patients with severe fluorosis will notice obvious discolouration or brown stains on the tooth.
Want to Find Out More About Dental Fluorosis?
If you’re concerned that your child has developed dental fluorosis, your first port of call should be your family dentist. Our dentists at Cambridge City Dental are available Monday to Saturday. Call or book your appointment online today!