Dentists and Fluorosis: Detection and Treatment
Fluorosis is a cosmetic dental problem caused by excessive fluoride intake during early childhood. It is during these formative years that the permanent teeth begin to form under the primary teeth. Excessive fluoride intake may come in the form of fluoride supplements, or accidentally swallowing fluoride toothpastes with fluoridated water. According to Fishers dentists fluorosis usually affects forming permanent teeth, as the excess fluoride damages the cells which form a tooth's enamel, also known as ameloblasts. This leads to demineralization of the enamel, making a tooth more porous.
The effects of Fluorosis can be seen once the permanent teeth begin to erupt. It can range anywhere from spots of yellow or brown tooth discoloration, to irregularly-shaped bumps on the surface of the teeth. Mild Fluorosis usually causes lighter streaks of discoloration, while more severe cases created pits and black or brown spots. Fluorosis is primarily an aesthetic problem, which means that it affects only the teeth's surface and does not damage its structure or make it any less healthy.
Upon consultation, your dentist would conduct some diagnostic procedures to determine whether Fluorosis has caused your child's tooth discoloration. They will ask about your child's fluoride intake, as well as whether they have taken any fluoride supplements during their toddler years. Your child's dental and medical history would also be assessed; these would include questions about any health conditions are disorders that would influence your child's teeth. X-rays and physical exams will also be taken to assess your child's overall oral health.
Also, according to Fishers dentist, there are some health disorders which are similar to Fluorosis in their signs and symptoms. Other conditions, such as those which affect the skull and facial bones, may affect the development of the enamel and dentin. Poor oral hygiene is also one of the most common causes of discolored teeth and tooth decay.
How is Fluorosis prevented? This is done by assisting children while they brush their teeth. When brushing with them, lessen the use of flavored toothpastes that may cause children to swallow them, and keep products with fluoride out of children's reach. Keeping check of your drinking water's fluoride levels also helps in preventing Fluorosis.
Fluorosis does not lead to cavities, and only affects the surface of the teeth. Teeth discoloration acquired from Fluorosis is permanent and would darken over time. Fishers dentists recommend teeth whitening procedures to mask teeth staining. At times Fluorosis only causes stains at the teeth's posterior area; this need not require treatment. Severe cases of Flourosis may be treated by entirely covering the teeth through the use of crown, dental veneers, or teeth bonding.
The effects of Fluorosis can be seen once the permanent teeth begin to erupt. It can range anywhere from spots of yellow or brown tooth discoloration, to irregularly-shaped bumps on the surface of the teeth. Mild Fluorosis usually causes lighter streaks of discoloration, while more severe cases created pits and black or brown spots. Fluorosis is primarily an aesthetic problem, which means that it affects only the teeth's surface and does not damage its structure or make it any less healthy.
Upon consultation, your dentist would conduct some diagnostic procedures to determine whether Fluorosis has caused your child's tooth discoloration. They will ask about your child's fluoride intake, as well as whether they have taken any fluoride supplements during their toddler years. Your child's dental and medical history would also be assessed; these would include questions about any health conditions are disorders that would influence your child's teeth. X-rays and physical exams will also be taken to assess your child's overall oral health.
Also, according to Fishers dentist, there are some health disorders which are similar to Fluorosis in their signs and symptoms. Other conditions, such as those which affect the skull and facial bones, may affect the development of the enamel and dentin. Poor oral hygiene is also one of the most common causes of discolored teeth and tooth decay.
How is Fluorosis prevented? This is done by assisting children while they brush their teeth. When brushing with them, lessen the use of flavored toothpastes that may cause children to swallow them, and keep products with fluoride out of children's reach. Keeping check of your drinking water's fluoride levels also helps in preventing Fluorosis.
Fluorosis does not lead to cavities, and only affects the surface of the teeth. Teeth discoloration acquired from Fluorosis is permanent and would darken over time. Fishers dentists recommend teeth whitening procedures to mask teeth staining. At times Fluorosis only causes stains at the teeth's posterior area; this need not require treatment. Severe cases of Flourosis may be treated by entirely covering the teeth through the use of crown, dental veneers, or teeth bonding.
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