What Is Fluorosis?
Fluorosis is a dental condition caused by exposure and ingestion of high amounts of fluoride in children. It is a common dental abnormality found in many young children today.
Ideally, fluorine in little amounts maintains dental health. It keeps the enamel strong and prevents dental caries.
However, higher-than-normal levels can predispose children to fluorosis. Stringent monitoring of fluorine exposure is therefore important in keeping kids healthy.
This may be quite the challenge, as fluorine is found in a lot of places. Water for consumption, most tubes of toothpaste, fortified foods, and pesticides are just some of the major sources of fluorine.
Fluorosis can be quite troubling and may require the consultation of dental professionals.
Dentist ballan offers services geared towards maintaining dental health and correcting abnormalities in this respect.
What Demographic of Children Is Most Predisposed To Developing Fluorosis?
Children under the age of eight are most at risk of developing fluorosis. It usually coincides with the time these children are shedding their milk teeth and sprouting permanent ones.
Generally, older age groups do not develop it, although effects from younger ages may linger into adulthood.
What Are The Causes of Fluorosis?
Fluorosis can be caused by the Following:
1- Improper use of toothpaste and mouth rinses: Most kinds of toothpaste and mouth rinses are quite rich in fluoride. Indiscriminate ingestion or using too much at a time can be troublesome.
2- Drinking water rich in fluoride can also predispose children to fluorosis: Consumption of fluoridated water available for domestic use can cause fluorosis in children. Fluoride levels above 2 parts per million can be quite troublesome in this respect.
3- Consumption of fluoride-rich supplements or fortified foods: Indiscriminate or improper consumption of fluoride supplements can cause fluorosis. Also, foods such as some processed cereals, infant formulas, and drinks are predisposing factors as well.
Signs And Symptoms of Fluorosis
The manifestations of fluorosis often range from mild to profound and debilitating. Most cases fall on the mild side of the spectrum. Moderate to severe cases are quite rare.
In mild cases, the abnormality is barely noticeable and merely aesthetic, for the most part. Small flecks of white are scattered over a relatively small area of the enamel.
In moderate to severe cases, the aesthetic defect is profound and the enamel’s structural integrity is compromised. The white flecks cover much more area. In addition, there is pitting and loss of areas of the enamel.
Correction of Fluorosis
- Tooth whitening may help alleviate signs of fluorosis, especially in mild cases.
- The use of veneers made to cover the front surface of teeth for a better look.
- Enamel micro-abrasions.
- The use of crowns and fillings.
Conclusion
It is important to strictly monitor the amount of fluoride your child is getting exposed to, especially during their first eight years.
Monitoring the quantity of toothpaste they brush with is important. A pea-sized spread is an ideal amount for thorough mouth-washing.
Monitoring domestic water fluorine levels and controlling your children’s exposure is another way to prevent it.
Parents should consult professionals regarding the administration of fluoride-supplement dosages. In communities where the level of fluoride exceeds two parts per million, parents should switch water sources for their children.