Fluoride and Fluorosis
Fluoride is an essential mineral resource for all children. It helps them to develop strong teeth and bones. Of course, children always seem to love to eat and drink sugary foods and drinks. This often leaves behind acids which hurt the tooth enamel of children. In order to protect the teeth from damage, fluoride works to reverse the signs of decay and as well protect it. However, a high rate of fluoride in the children’s teeth can result in dental fluorosis.
What is Fluorosis?
Simply put, fluorosis is a drastic change in the physical appearance of the tooth’s enamel surface. Most common events of fluorosis don’t affect the functioning of the teeth and likewise, cause no pain. Dental fluorosis is generally mild or very mild. Mild fluorosis appears as white, lacy marks on the tooth’s enamel and is quite uneasy to see with ordinary eyes.
Some minor cases of fluorosis are categorized as moderate. This category of fluorosis resembles the mild but covers more of the tooth. There are also severe cases of fluorosis in rare cases. Severe fluorosis may have the enamel pitting and leave brown spots.
What Causes Dental Fluorosis?
As indicated earlier, excess fluorides cause fluorosis. Hence, fluorosis is caused by consuming fluoride in excess over a considerable long period of time when the teeth are developing before they appear in the mouth. Usually, this takes place before the age of eight years old. How do you avoid this? Monitor and supervise your children’s brushing and ensure they don’t use too much toothpaste, mouth rinse or mouthwash. Also, teach them how to spit, not swallow.
Get more information on Dental Fluorosis at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
How Do I Know if My Child Has Dental Fluorosis?
Generally, there are many factors that cause changes in the appearance of the teeth. So, in case you notice changes in the physical appearance of your teeth, you may not be able to conclude on whether it is fluorosis or not. Therefore, in such a case, you may need to visit a pediatric dentist for a professional diagnosis.
Other symptoms include:
- Stains ranging from yellow to dark brown
- Surface irregularities
- Pits that are highly noticeable
Likewise, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children should pay a regular visit to a dentist starting from the age of one. This will ensure that proper checkups are made and follow-ups are done when necessary.
Visiting a Pediatric Dentist
If you or your loved one is having the feeling that one or all of the children is affected with fluorosis, it is high time you visited a professional pediatric dentist for a proper check up and diagnosis. If you are looking for a professional and licensed pediatric dental facility, contact Children’s Dentistry of San Diego today!
