Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 5 minutes
Fluoride is an essential mineral for promoting healthy teeth and preventing dental caries, but too much fluoride can result in white or brown speckles on the teeth. When too much fluoride is ingested at a young age, it can result in fluorosis, white or brown spots or flecks on the teeth.
In this blog, we explain what fluorosis is and how to detect and prevent it. We provide a list of 4 signs to watch for that indicate your child is developing fluorosis.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Fluorosis is caused by excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development, resulting in tooth enamel discoloration. Though mild cases may only show as white spots, severe fluorosis can cause brown stains and even pits in the teeth, affecting both appearance and function.
What is Fluorosis?
Dental fluorosis presents as faint white or brown lines or spots that appear on permanent teeth. It is caused by excessive fluoride exposure from any source during tooth development. Children aged 8 or younger are at risk for developing this condition. Fluorosis only affects teeth that haven’t erupted yet.
Fluorosis is not a disease and does not affect the health of the teeth; it is mostly just a cosmetic concern. In fact, individuals with fluorosis are actually more resistant to cavities!
Common sources of fluoride include:
- Fluoridated drinking water: Many municipalities add fluoride to the water supply to help prevent tooth decay. The CDC recommends 0.7 milligrams of fluoride to 1 liter of water.
- Fluoride toothpaste: Most toothpastes contain safe amounts of fluoride. It is not harmful unless it is ingested in large quantities.
- Infant formula: Powdered or liquid concentrated baby formulas need to be reconstituted with water. Since tap water has fluoride added, this can increase your child’s fluoride intake.
- Dietary fluoride supplements: Children taking fluoride supplements for dental health should be monitored to avoid high fluoride ingestion.
Signs of Dental Fluorosis
Here are four signs to look out for:
Sign 1: White Flecks or Spots
White flecks or spots are the first signs of mild fluorosis. These tiny, chalky-looking marks appear on the surface of your child’s permanent teeth.
Sign 2: White Lines
If you notice white lines running along your child’s teeth, it suggests a slightly higher level of fluoride exposure than white flecks. These lines are more prominent and can affect the overall appearance of the teeth.
Sign 3: Brown Spots or Patches
Brown spots or patches on your child’s teeth are a clear sign of more severe fluorosis. This discoloration happens when excessive fluoride damages the tooth enamel. It’s important to address this issue with your dentist.
Sign 4: Surface Pitting
In the most severe cases of fluorosis, the tooth enamel can develop pits or rough patches. This not only affects the look of your child’s teeth but can also impact their function and make them more susceptible to cavities.
How to Prevent Dental Fluorosis
To make sure your child is not ingesting too much fluoride, consider the following:
- Check the fluoride concentration in drinking water: Know the fluoride content in your tap water and, if necessary, switch to alternative sources (such as bottled water) with lower fluoride levels. You can check the levels of fluoride in your tap water on My Water’s Fluoride.
- Use the appropriate amount of fluoridated toothpaste: A smear of toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice is suitable for children. Ensure your child understands not to swallow the paste.
- Limit fluoride supplements: Only administer fluoride supplements if prescribed by a healthcare professional, especially if your water supply contains fluoride.
Treatment Options
If your child shows signs of fluorosis, there are a few treatments that can improve the appearance of teeth:
- Microabrasion: A cosmetic procedure that removes a small layer of enamel, effectively eliminating fluorosis stains.
- Teeth whitening: Your dentist puts a whitening gel on your teeth for a set time. This gel helps to lighten your tooth enamel and make it match better with fluorosis spots. Teeth whitening can work for mild fluorosis, but there might be other treatments that are better for you.
- Dental crowns: Crowns, like veneers, are custom-made. However, a crown covers your entire tooth. To make it fit properly, your dentist will need to remove some of your natural enamel.
- Veneers or bonding: Veneers are thin shells applied to the surface of the tooth. Bonding involves using a composite resin material to cover up the stains.
- Regular dental visits: Regular visits to a pediatric dentist can help monitor your child’s oral health. They can provide assessments on fluoride exposure and recommend tailored strategies to ensure your childs teeth look their best.
FAQs About Fluorosis in Kids
Can you get fluorosis at any age?
Fluorosis usually happens when kids are under 8 years old and their teeth are still developing. Once teeth are fully grown, the risk of getting fluorosis is much lower.
Can fluorosis be reversed in toddlers?
Fluorosis can’t be reversed, but its appearance can be improved with dental treatments. The key is to manage fluoride intake early on, like making sure toddlers don’t swallow toothpaste. If it’s mild, it might not even need treatment.
Is fluoride bad for kids?
Fluoride itself is not bad for children; in fact, it is an essential mineral that helps strengthen enamel and prevent tooth decay. However, when fluoride is ingested in excessive amounts, particularly during early childhood, it can lead to dental fluorosis.
Your Best Pediatric Dentist in Denver, CO
Remember, balance is key—fluoride is beneficial, but excess can have negative effects. If you suspect your child may have dental fluorosis or are concerned about their fluoride intake, visit Youth Dental & Orthodontics.
We have four locations to service you better: Denver, Aurora, Thornton, and Hampden Our experienced dentists are happy to address any questions or concerns you may have about your child’s oral health.
If you are searching for a ‘pediatric dentist near me’ or ‘kids dentist in Denver, CO’ we can help! Call (303) 953-8801 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form.
