It is a condition that occurs after consumption of large amounts of fluoride during tooth formation. Dental fluorosis affects only the external appearance of teeth and produces no caries.

Dental fluorosis is manifested by the appearance of brown or colored spots. Fluorosis can cause mild changes in the teeth color or even visible changes. Fluorosis does not appear if the teeth have erupted.

Fluorosis is also a matter of cosmetic dentistry. Sometimes has a mild form so that only a dentist can detect. Most cases of fluorosis occurs when the child is given supplements based on fluoride, disregarding the fact that tap water contains already enough fluoride. Fluorosis occurs if the child frequently swallows toothpaste, when brushing teeth.

Symptoms

Teeth affected by a light fluorosis shows no visible changes in the dental surfaces. Moderate fluorosis causes the appearance of lines, stripes or white spots. In the more severe forms of fluorosis the teeth may stain and may have brown, gray, or black stains. Enamel can get an unusual form.

Diagnosis

The dentist will ask questions about the child’s fluoride intake. Thus, it will determine if the stains from the enamel are caused by fluorosis. The dentist will ask about past illnesses that could have caused changes in teeth.

There are other conditions that may have symptoms similar to those of fluorosis.

Developmental defects and problems in the skull and bone structure can affect the enamel and the dentin. High fever or some trauma (such as a fall that affects teeth) can cause pigmentation of the teeth.

Stains caused by fluorosis are permanent and may become yellow with the passage of time.