If your child has started brushing their teeth, their dental routine might include visiting the dentist biannually and using fluoride toothpaste. While fluoride protects the enamel and prevents tooth decay, it can lead to fluorosis if consumed in large quantities during early childhood. Here's what you should know about this problem and how you can avoid it.

What is it and How Does it Occur?

Overexposure to fluoride products like supplements, toothpaste, and mouthwash during tooth development can result in fluorosis. Teeth are affected before they breach the surface of the gums and can become stained or have several surface irregularities. Fluoride is naturally found in water, but high levels combined with the consumption of fortified juice, supplements, toothpaste, and mouthwash can cause dental fluorosis.

Symptoms

There is no structural or functional effect of dental fluorosis, but cosmetic stains can occur. They can range from tiny white specs or streaks on the teeth to dark brown stains and rough pits that make the teeth difficult to clean. If you notice these symptoms, talk to your dentist about the severity of the condition, as it can range from mild to severe.

Treatment

Mild cases and cases where it only affects the back teeth may not require cosmetic treatment. Teeth whitening, crowns, veneers, bonding resin, and microabrasion therapy are options offered by your local dentist that you can utilize to help mask the appearance of stains. 

Prevention

Children are the most susceptible to dental fluorosis, so parents should be vigilant. Check with your local water authority to see how much fluoride is in your tap water at home and opt for a filter if necessary. Be sure to keep supplements, toothpaste, mouthwash, and other fluoride-containing products out of the reach of children. When your child is young, use only a small amount of toothpaste on their toothbrush and avoid flavored products to discourage swallowing.

Bethel Family Dentistry in Bethel, OH, offers the highest quality of care to patients of all ages. They utilize state-of-the-art technology and techniques while providing preventative, cosmetic, and restorative services. Schedule your next appointment by calling (513) 734-2029 today. For more information, visit their Facebook page to stay up to date on their offerings and helpful dental care tips.