Island Dental blog

Marco Island Dentist | Things You Need to Know About Dental Fluorosis

July 27, 2021

Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps to protect tooth enamel by combining with the minerals in our teeth to form acid-resistant and stronger enamel. Fluoride works topically and systematically. This natural mineral may be beneficial to our teeth but ingestion of excessive fluoride during enamel formation especially in children causes a condition called “dental fluorosis.” Dental fluorosis changes the appearance of the tooth enamel in young children as a result of being exposed to too much fluoride. It appears as faint streaks or white lines on the teeth. If your child is affected with this condition, consult a Marco Island dentist for the appropriate treatment.

What are the Symptoms of Fluorosis?

Children younger than 8 are the only ones at risk for fluorosis while their permanent teeth are still forming. Excess fluoride may be consumed through drinking water, fortified foods, and toothpaste. Even though this condition is painless, it will change the appearance of the teeth to become stained with white streaks or splotches. Fluorosis ranges from normal to severe though severe cases are not common.

How to Prevent Your Child from Developing Fluorosis

Children older than 8 and adults are not at risk for fluorosis. There are things that parents can to prevent this condition from developing.

Infant to 3 Years Old:

  • Breastfeed your child
  • Brush your child’s teeth thoroughly twice a day or as directed by a dentist
  • Supervise your child’s brushing to ensure the use of the appropriate amount of toothpaste

3-8 Years Old:

  • Only use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for children ages 3-6
  • Do not use fluoride mouth rinses for children under 6 years old unless advised by a dentist
  • Continue brushing teeth twice a day
  • Supervise your child’s brushing to help minimize the amount of toothpaste that gets ingested
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Looking for a Marco Island Dentist?

Severe cases of fluorosis can only be treated through teeth whitening or veneers. If you need more information about fluorosis and how to address this condition, talk to a Marco Island dentist today by contacting Island Paradise Dental.

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