What is dental fluorosis and how to prevent it?
Dental Fluorosis is discoloration of the permanent teeth due to consuming too much fluoride while your teeth are developing. A mild case of dental fluorosis can give the teeth a white lacy appearance.
Is there a classification system for dental fluorosis?
Clinical appearance of dental fluorosis in permanent teeth in relation to histologic changes Based on studies in Northern Tanzania a new classification system of dental fluorosis is proposed. The classification system includes 10 scores designed to characterize the degree of dental fluorosis affecting buccal/lingual and occlusal surfaces.
Does dental fluorosis change after three years?
This study provides evidence regarding the clinical change of dental fluorosis and its severity after three years, using the TF index for DF. This is the first study to report dental fluorosis clinical change and its relationship with age, gender, and severity in a specific Colombian population with a high prevalence of DF.
Can fluorosis get worse if not treated?
Fluorosis can develop at any time when the teeth are developing, and this starts in the womb. Even after the teeth are fully developed, the effects of fluorosis can worsen if it's not treated appropriately; especially in moderate or severe cases.
Does fluorosis go away?
No matter how much they might brush and floss, the fluorosis stains do not go away. Many well-known sources of fluoride may contribute to overexposure, including: Fluoridated mouth rinse, which young children may swallow.
Is dental fluorosis reversible?
This discoloration may or may not be noticeable to the eye. However, as fluorosis becomes more severe, tooth enamel can begin to turn yellow or brown and/or become thin and pitted. Unfortunately, dental fluorosis cannot be reversed once it develops. Current treatments simply mask the appearance of this condition.
Does fluorosis affect permanent teeth?
Fluorosis isn't a disease and doesn't affect the health of your teeth. In most cases, the effect is so subtle that only a dentist would notice it during an examination. The type of fluorosis found in the United States has no effect on tooth function and may make the teeth more resistant to decay.
How do you get rid of fluorosis on teeth?
How Can You Get Rid of White Spots?Enamel Microabrasion. This procedure involves your dentist removing a small amount of natural enamel from your teeth to make the white spots less noticeable. ... Teeth Whitening. ... Porcelain Veneers. ... Dental Bonding.
Can fluorosis be whitened?
Bleaching is a conservative method for restoring the colour of intrinsic discoloration of teeth. The combination of McInnes solution and power bleaching is effective procedure for bleaching of fluorosis stained teeth.
Do white patches on teeth go away?
Depending on their cause, white spots on the teeth may go away on their own, need treatment, or persist for a lifetime. For example, if you have developed white teeth spots due to dehydration (from keeping your mouth open at night), they may disappear within hours.
How do you get rid of dental fluorosis naturally?
Vinegar contains acidic properties that can be an effective way to get rid of white spots from teeth. All you have to do is mix some vinegar and baking soda to make a thick paste. Using this paste while brushing your teeth works well. You can do this once in a week for better results.
How common is fluorosis?
The prevalence of very mild fluorosis increased from 17.2% to 28.5% and mild fluorosis increased from 4.1% to 8.6%. The prevalence of moderate and severe fluorosis increased from 1.3% to 3.6%.
Which teeth are most affected by fluorosis?
Permanent dentition is involved more in dental fluorosis than primary dentition. Maxillary teeth are more commonly affected than homologous mandibular teeth and maxillary central incisors are found to be the most commonly affected teeth, whereas first molars are the least commonly affected.
What is the cure of fluorosis?
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 permanent discoloration. Once a child reaches the age of 8, they are no longer at risk for developing fluorosis.
How do I get rid of white spots on my teeth permanently?
TreatmentsEnamel microabrasion. Some people may be able to have microabrasion done to treat their white spots. ... Teeth whitening or bleaching. Whitening or bleaching teeth can help to reduce the appearance of white spots and other stains. ... Dental veneer. ... Topical fluoride. ... Composite resin.
What is dental fluorosis?
Dental fluorosis is an abnormality caused by excessive fluoride intake. It occurs when too much fluoride is consumed while the teeth are developing...
What causes white spots on teeth from fluorosis?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that's been proven to strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent tooth decay. But it's only beneficial when...
Is fluorosis reversible?
Fluorosis damages teeth while they are developing. By the time they erupt, dental fluorosis reversal isn't possible. However, there are various cos...
When does fluorosis develop?
Fluorosis can form at any time when the teeth are developing, and this starts in the womb. Even after the teeth are fully developed, the effects of...
How is dental fluorosis diagnosed?
There are several things that can cause white marks on teeth or other changes to tooth color. As well as fluorosis, decalcification, enamel hypopla...
Can you get treatment for fluorosis on Medicaid?
Because fluorosis is treated in a number of different ways (cosmetic and medical), there is no simple way to know if the treatment will be covered...
When was dental fluorosis recognized?
In ancient times, Galen describes what is thought to be dental fluorosis. However, it was not until the early 20th century that dental fluorosis became increasingly recognized and scientifically studied.
How is dental fluorosis growing?
Dental fluorosis has been growing in the United States concurrent with fluoridation of municipal water supplies, although disproportionately by race. A 2010 CDC report acknowledges an overall incidence of dental fluorosis of 22% from 1986-87 increased to 41% in the early 21st century, with an increase in moderate to severe dental fluorosis from 1% to 4%. The 2011-12 NHANES figures documented another 31% overall increase among American teens since the previous decade, with a total adolescent population impact of 61% afflicted. More than one in five American teens (23%) have moderate to severe dental fluorosis on at least two teeth.
What is the disorder of tooth enamel?
Dental fluorosis is a common disorder, characterized by hypomineralization of tooth enamel caused by ingestion of excessive fluoride during enamel formation.
Why do teeth get fluorosis?
Causes. Dental fluorosis is caused by a higher than normal amount of fluoride ingestion whilst teeth are forming. Primary dentine fluorosis and enamel fluorosis can only happen during tooth formation, so fluoride exposure occurs in childhood.
How to diagnose fluorosis?
The adequate diagnosis of fluorosis can be diagnosed by visual clinical examination. This requires inspection of dry and clean tooth surfaces under a good lighting. There are individual variations in clinical fluorosis manifestation which are highly dependent on the duration, timing, and dosage of fluoride exposure.There are different classifications to diagnose the severity based on the appearances. The clinical manifestation of mild dental fluorosis is mostly characterised a snow flaking appearance that lack a clear border, opaque, white spots, narrow white lines following the perikymata or patches as the opacities may coalesce with an intact, hard and smooth enamel surface on most of the teeth. With increasing severity, the subsurface enamel, all along the tooth becomes more porous. Enamel may appear yellow/ brown discolouration and/ or many and pitted white-brown lesions that look like cavities. They are often described as “mottled teeth”. Fluorosis does not cause discolouration to the enamel directly, as upon eruption into the mouth, affected permanent teeth are not discoloured yet. In dental enamel, fluorosis causes subsurface porosity or hypomineralizations, which extend toward the dentinal-enamel junction as the condition progresses and the affected teeth become more susceptible to staining. Due to diffusion of exogenous ions (e.g., iron and copper), stains develop into the increasingly and abnormally porous enamel.
What does enamel look like?
Enamel may appear yellow/ brown discolouration and/ or many and pitted white-brown lesions that look like cavities. They are often described as “mottled teeth”. Fluorosis does not cause discolouration to the enamel directly, as upon eruption into the mouth, affected permanent teeth are not discoloured yet.
What causes a tooth to be more susceptible to staining?
In dental enamel, fluorosis causes subsurface porosity or hypomineralizations, which extend toward the dentinal-enamel junction as the condition progresses and the affected teeth become more susceptible to staining.
Why do children get fluorosis?
Dental fluorosis is caused by taking in too much fluoride over a long period when the teeth are forming under the gums. Only children aged 8 years and younger are at risk because this is when permanent teeth are developing; children older than 8 years, adolescents, and adults cannot develop dental fluorosis.
How to find out if your water is fluoridated?
If you live in a state that participates in CDC’s My Water’s Fluoride, you can find out your water system’s fluoridation status online. If you are on a public water system, you can call the water utility company and request a copy of the utility’s most recent Consumer Confidence Report.
How to clean teeth for kids?
You should clean your child’s teeth as soon as the first tooth appears by brushing without toothpaste with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and plain water.
How does fluoride work?
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. What is dental fluorosis?
What is the condition that causes enamel to change?
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. Most dental fluorosis in the U.S. is very mild to mild, appearing as white spots on the tooth surface that may be barely noticeable and do not affect dental function. Moderate and severe forms of dental fluorosis , which are far less common, cause more extensive enamel changes. In the rare, severe form, pits may form in the teeth. The severe form hardly ever occurs in communities where the level of fluoride in water is less than 2 milligrams per liter.
What is the term for a tooth with white spots?
Moderate and severe forms of dental fluorosis —teeth have larger white spots and, in the rare, severe form, rough, pitted surfaces.
How much fluoride is in water?
In some regions of the United States, public water systems and private wells contain a natural fluoride concentration of more than 2 mg/L; at this concentration, children 8 years and younger have a greater chance for developing dental fluorosis, including the moderate and severe forms. These children should have an alternative source of drinking water that contains fluoride at the recommended level.
What is Dental Fluorosis?
Dental fluorosis is a common defect of tooth enamel caused by ingestion of too much fluoride during the first 8 years of life when enamel is formed . 1
How To Prevent Dental Fluorosis?
If you or your child has dental fluorosis, consider it a blessing in disguise.
What happens if your child's teeth are white?
If you observe that your child’s teeth have white streaks, spots, or discoloration- immediately eliminate fluoride exposure. Dental fluorosis typically signals the first sign of fluoride toxicity and the development of more severe health effects caused by fluoride ( 3 ). As the effects of fluoride do not start and stop at the teeth.
What are the effects of fluoride on teeth?
In essence, dental fluorosis acts as a red flag to the development of fluoride induced health effects that are not as easily seen with the naked eye: 1 Skeletal Fluorosis: broken bones, arthritis, reduced mobility. 2 Pineal Gland Calcification: poor sleep, lower melatonin. 3 Fluoride’s Brain Effects: lowered IQ, autism, ADHD.
How serious is fluoride?
The seriousness of fluoride toxicity depends on the amount of fluoride, age, individual response, weight, degree of physical activity, nutrition, and bone growth. 5
Does toothpaste cause fluorosis?
Since then, with the combination of fluoride containing toothpaste, mouthwash and other sources of fluoride, dental fluorosis has become common.
Is dental fluorosis a red flag?
In essence, dental fluorosis acts as a red flag to the development of fluoride induced health effects that are not as easily seen with the naked eye:
What Is Dental Fluorosis?
Dental Fluorosis is discoloration of the permanent teeth due to consuming too much fluoride while your teeth are developing. A mild case of dental fluorosis can give the teeth a white lacy appearance. A more severe case can cause the teeth to have a dark stained or pitted appearance.
What is the term for discoloration of teeth?
This change in the appearance of the teeth occurs when too much fluoride is consumed while teeth are developing. Permanent teeth are still developing until the approximate age of 8. At Living Well Dental Group we want you to be well informed about dental fluorosis. We’ve included a lot of helpful information to help you prevent dental fluorosis and treatment options in case this has occurred to you or someone you know.
Does fluorosis require dental treatment?
Dental fluorosis is usually mild and does not require dental treatment. If dental treatment is necessary, a visit to your dentist can help you to determine the best course of action. Since dental fluorosis can occur up to the age of 8, parents are key to prevention. Teaching your child how to properly use fluoridated dental products and understanding the amount of fluoride that is in your drinking water are key to prevention of dental fluorosis.
Does fluorosis damage teeth?
Most often dental fluorosis does not permanently damage the tooth therefore does not require dental fluorosis treatment. Many might wonder how to get rid of dental fluorosis if it is severe. A few options may include:
Can dental fluorosis cause permanent damage?
Most cases of dental fluorosis are minor and do not cause permanent damage to the teeth. Severe cases of dental fluorosis are rare. Signs of dental fluorosis can include:
Is it safe to spit out toothpaste?
A concentrated amount of fluoride can be found in toothpaste and mouth rinse. It is considered safe in these products, although children should be taught to spit out the toothpaste and mouth rinse as to not swallow it. Ingesting too much concentrated fluoride from these products can cause dental fluorosis.
Is it safe to drink water with fluoride?
If the water does have fluoride that is occurring in a higher than recommended amount, alternative sources of drinking water should be used. Fluoride is added to the drinking water in most communities. This is monitored and considered safe.
Background
The prevalence of fluorosis of the permanent teeth has increased during the past few decades in the United States and Canada. However, primary-tooth fluorosis has been largely overlooked, because it is often difficult to recognize. This article describes primary-tooth fluorosis, both as characterized in the literature and as seen clinically.
Methods
The authors review and summarize previous studies of primary-tooth fluorosis and discuss its etiology. In addition, the authors describe the condition, based on findings from the literature, and their own experiences in characterizing it as part of a longitudinal investigation of fluoride exposures, dental fluorosis and dental caries.
Results
Several studies indicate that primary-tooth fluorosis can be prevalent and severe in areas of very high water fluoride concentrations. In these areas, primary-tooth fluorosis is likely the result of both pre-and postnatal exposures.
Conclusion
Primary-tooth fluorosis may be related to occurrence of fluorosis in the permanent dentition, so that its recognition by the clinician should raise awareness of possible increased risk for the permanent dentition.
Clinical Implications
The detection of primary-tooth fluorosis in a young child should prompt the clinician to carefully review the child's past fluoride exposures and current fluoride practices, as well as those of any younger siblings.
Footnotes
This article is a result of work on a project, “Longitudinal Study of Fluoride Exposures and Dental Fluorosis,” which is supported by National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research grants R01-DE09551 and P30-DE10126.
What is Dental Fluorosis?
Dental fluorosis is a disease that occurs in children below 8 years. If kids below 8 ingest a large amount of fluoride per day- more than 3-8 grams a day- they develop dental fluorosis. Fluoride affects the enamel of the teeth, causing white spots on the teeth. In severe cases, it causes pits, lines and stains on the teeth.
How much fluoride should I take for dental fluorosis?
Dental fluorosis occurs if kids ingest more than a 3-8 grams of fluoride per day. Dental fluorosis does not occur once permanent teeth are formed, i.e., after around 8 years of age. Fluoridated products are safe to use- as long as you know how much fluoride your water has.
What happens when milk teeth erupt?
When your child’s milk teeth have erupted, permanent teeth are still being formed inside the gums. Fluoride affects the formation of these teeth, causes white spots, and roughness like lines of pits on the surfaces of the teeth. It also makes tooth enamel brittle. All these are features of dental fluorosis.
Can you get veneers on your teeth?
You can also get veneers on your teeth, or caps. Dental fluorosis is really nothing to be worried about. All you have to do is make sure you know about the fluoride content in your water. Visit your dentist if you are worried about your child developing fluorosis.
Can dental fluorosis be reversible?
The effects of dental fluorosis on the teeth are not reversible. Your dentist will decide the course of treatment depending on the type of fluorosis you have. In mild cases, where there are only a few your dentist can carefully remove the outer layer of enamel that is affected, or suggest fillings of composite. You can also get veneers on your teeth, or caps.#N#Dental fluorosis is really nothing to be worried about. All you have to do is make sure you know about the fluoride content in your water. Visit your dentist if you are worried about your child developing fluorosis.
Can you give a child fluoride?
Yes! Fluoride drops and tablets are meant to give your child the fluoride they need. They markedly reduce the chance of dental decay. However, only give your child dental drops or tablets if you know the water in your area has less fluoride. Otherwise, you risk your child developing fluorosis.
Is there fluoride in water?
Fluoride-free products are largely marketed towards people who have- or are at risk of developing dental fluorosis or skeletal fluorosis. People in certain districts of the country suffer from too much fluoride in their water and don’t need any more in their products!
Overview
Causes
Dental fluorosis is caused by a higher than normal amount of fluoride ingestion whilst teeth are forming. Primary dentine fluorosis and enamel fluorosis can only happen during tooth formation, so fluoride exposure occurs in childhood. Enamel fluorosis has a white opaque appearance which is due to the surface of the enamel being hypomineralised.
The most superficial concern in dental fluorosis is aesthetic changes in the permanent dentitio…
Diagnosis
The adequate diagnosis of fluorosis can be diagnosed by visual clinical examination. This requires inspection of dry and clean tooth surfaces under a good lighting. There are individual variations in clinical fluorosis manifestation which are highly dependent on the duration, timing, and dosage of fluoride exposure.There are different classifications to diagnose the severity based on …
Classification
The two main classification systems are described below. Others include the tooth surface fluorosis index (Horowitz et al. 1984), which combines Deans index and the TF index; and the fluorosis risk index (Pendrys 1990), which is intended to define the time at which fluoride exposure occurs, and relates fluorosis risk with tooth development stage.
Mechanism
Teeth are the most studied body tissues to examine the impact of fluoride to human health. There are a few possible mechanisms that have been proposed. It is generally believed that the hypomineralization of affected enamel is mainly due to in-situ toxic effects of the fluoride on the ameloblasts in the enamel formation, and not caused by the general effects of fluoride on the calcium metabolism, or by the poisoning effects that suppress the fluoride metabolism. Howeve…
Management
Dental fluorosis may or may not be of cosmetic concern. In some cases, there may be varying degrees of negative psychosocial effects. The treatment options are:
• Mild cases: Tooth bleaching
• Moderate cases: Enamel microabrasion (outer affected layer of enamel is abraded in an acidic environment)
Epidemiology
Fluorosis is extremely common, with 41% of adolescents having definite fluorosis, and another 20% "questionably" having fluorosis according to the Centers for Disease Control. As of 2005 surveys conducted by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research in the USA between 1986 and 1987 and by the Center of Disease Control between 1999 and 2004 are the only national sources of data concerning the prevalence of dental fluorosis. Before the 1999-2004 st…
Prevention
Dental fluorosis can be prevented by lowering the amount of fluoride intake to below the tolerable upper limit. This can be achieved by consuming de-fluorinated water and improving the general nutritional status of the people.