Dental fluorosis is a condition that results from excessive intake of fluoride during the years of tooth formation, generally between birth and the ages of six to eight years old.

Excessive intake of fluoride can disturb the cells that are responsible for enamel formation function. These cells, called ameloblasts, do not produce enamel properly in presence of fluoride, and the effect is irreversible.

Appearance of dental fluorosis

Dental fluorosis manifests itself as small whitish stains, going as far as a brownish discolouration of the teeth.

Fluorosis on teeth is mainly a cosmetic problem and does not increase the risk of cavities.

Treatments to mask dental fluorosis

  • Composite fillings to hide dental fluorosis if it is light or moderate.
  • Porcelain veneers for more severe cases.

References

  1. Dental Fluorosis (Wikipedia).
  2. Iowa compared to Kenya (The Friess Family).

The information above should be used as a reference only. Any medical decision should not be taken before consulting a health care professional.

The masculine gender may have been more used in the article, but without prejudice, to make reading easier.

Category dental problems