Dental fluorosis, a cosmetic condition that affects the teeth, is only a concern in infants. Children who drink fluoridated water from birth to three years old are most at risk of developing enamel fluorosis. Parents can help their children avoid fluorosis by taking preventive steps.
Fluoridated foods are recommended for children who have not been breastfed. Children who have permanent teeth will be affected by the fluoridated foods they eat. These teeth can either become decayed quickly or have enamel fluorosis, which causes the front teeth to turn yellowish, yellowish, or brown. Enamel fluorosis can also cause large pits and staining to the outer teeth.
Children have a tendency to swallow toothpaste from the time they begin brushing their teeth at the tender age of two or three. Fluoride is a major problem for teeth health. When the toothpaste is swallowed directly, it can cause teeth decay. This is most common in children younger than two years old. These effects are mainly for the front teeth.
Infant formula foods are the second largest source of fluoride in infants, after toothpaste. These infant formula foods must be prepared using tap fluoride water. This infant intake is mixed with water to feed the children, which results in direct exposure to fluoridated water.
Infant formula can cause severe enamel fluorosis if used for a prolonged time. Fluoride-containing medications are another major source of fluoride for infants and children younger than 5 years. These medications can be in the form of pills, drops, vitamins, or lozenges.
These medications can cause enamel fluorosis in children if they are taken directly. They can cause mild to moderate side effects. Permanent teeth are a cosmetic concern due to their unpleasing appearance and color.
Dental fluorosis can be treated with the easiest and most minimally invasive treatment, called enamel micro abrasion. Acid is used to clean the enamel of the teeth. This repetitive process requires several sittings to achieve the desired result. This technique can be used in mild cases of dental fluorosis.
The application of acid to small amounts of enamel is followed by topical fluoride, which helps to remineralize and revitalize the teeth. Topical fluoride does not cause damage to the teeth, just as normal fluoridated tapwater. Topical fluoride strengthens teeth and helps to restore their condition.
The Porcelain Laminate Veneers treatment for dental fluorosis involves the removal of front-affected teeth. They are approximately one millimeter in diameter. The dentist takes a tooth impression and the lab prepares veneers that look identical to the surrounding teeth.
A lab-made veneer enhances the color of damaged teeth that have lost their enamel fluorosis. It fits easily into the shaved teeth. The affected tooth will have a pleasing appearance after this treatment.