Dental Fluorosis: treatment in children and adults

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Dental fluorosis is a cosmetic condition that affects the teeth. It is caused by overexposure to fluoride during the first eight years of life, when most permanent teeth are formed.

When erupted, teeth affected by fluorosis may appear slightly discolored, with white markings, or, in more severe cases, teeth may have yellow to dark brown staining, surface irregularities, and cavities that are very noticeable.

1. Dental fluorosis in children

A major cause of dental fluorosis is the inappropriate use of fluoride-containing dental products, such as toothpaste and mouthwashes. Sometimes children enjoy the taste of fluoridated toothpaste so much that they swallow it instead of spitting it out.

However, there are other causes of fluorosis, such as taking more than the prescribed amount of a fluoride supplement during early childhood or taking a fluoride supplement when drinking water is already fluoridated.

Fluoride occurs naturally in water. Natural fluoride levels above the currently recommended range for drinking water may increase the risk of severe fluorosis. In places where these natural levels are very high, it is recommended that children drink water from other sources.

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2. Symptoms and treatment of fluorosis

The symptoms of fluorosis range from small white spots or streaks that may go unnoticed to dark brown spots and rough enamel that is difficult to clean. In many cases, fluorosis is so mild that no treatment is needed. Or, it only affects back teeth where the stains are not seen.

The appearance of teeth affected by moderate to severe fluorosis can be significantly improved by a variety of techniques. Most of them are intended to mask the spots.

Said techniques can include in children the placement of composite resins that adhere to the enamel, improving the appearance of the affected tooth. In adults there is more variety of treatments in addition to the placement of composite resins, whitening or placement of veneers or crowns can also be performed, which cover the front part or all of the teeth to improve their appearance.

3. Prevention of fluorosis

However, parental vigilance is the key to preventing fluorosis. At home, it's important to keep all fluoride-containing products, such as toothpaste, mouthwash, and supplements, out of the reach of young children.

It is also important to control the use of fluoride toothpaste. Put a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on the child's toothbrush. This is enough for the protection of the teeth.

The child should also be taught to spit out the toothpaste after brushing instead of swallowing it. To encourage spitting up, it's a good idea to avoid flavored toothpastes that encourage children to swallow.

Source: adeslasdental

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