As a parent, it might be troubling to hear a dentist diagnose your child with fluorosis. Fortunately, dental fluorosis is not a disease but a cosmetic condition, meaning it won’t harm your child’s teeth or gums. To help you best manage your child’s oral care, here’s what you should know about dental fluorosis. 

What Is Dental Fluorosis?

Fluorosis is a cosmetic condition that causes white, yellow, or brown discoloration or spots to form on the surface of the teeth. Often, these effects are so mild that only a dentist can detect them. Fluorosis occurs when a child consumes too much fluoride during the first eight years of life, which is when the majority of permanent teeth form. 

How Is Dental Fluorosis Treated?

Most cases of fluorosis are very mild and do not require treatment. However, dentists can treat moderate cases by masking the discoloration or spots through teeth whitening. Severe cases can be masked with bonding, crowns, or veneers.

How Can You Prevent Dental Fluorosis? 

You can reduce your child’s chances of developing fluorosis by monitoring their fluoride intake. For example, make sure your child spits out toothpaste instead of swallowing it, and avoid buying flavored toothpaste that encourages swallowing. In addition, avoid giving your child fluoride supplements unless the water they drink is not adequately fluoridated. If you don’t know your water’s fluoride content, ask your water supplier or have your dentist examine a sample. Lastly, keep all fluoridated products such as toothpaste and mouthwash out of your child’s reach.

To keep your little one’s teeth and gums in excellent condition, you need a dentist you can trust. The experienced team at Hill Country Dental Associates in Kerrville, TX, provides comprehensive dental care to patients of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a gentle pediatric dentist to examine your child’s teeth or you require a more involved procedure such as a root canal or dental implant, the caring staff will ensure your visit is as stress-free as possible. Learn more about their services online, and call (830) 257-3000 to schedule an appointment today.