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ABCMD definition of Fluorosis: Fluorosis is fluoride poisoning due to excessive intake of fluorine, primarily characterized by mottled teeth.

What is Fluorosis?

Teeth are formed under the gums in the jawbone during early childhood. If a child consumes too much fluorine (a highly corrosive gaseous halogen element found in many drugs and drinking water) during this period, the formation of teeth may be disrupted and may cause fluorosis. Fluorosis varies from minor changes in the color of teeth to surface irregularities. Fluorosis affects only the dental enamel (the hard white outer layer of the teeth) not the other parts. It occurs only during the formation of teeth as once the teeth are formed they are not susceptible to fluorosis.

Fluorosis is not a disease; it is more of a cosmetic condition. Usually it is so benign that only a dentist can notice it. In some cases it can become severe and lead to some complications.

What causes Fluorosis?

Excessive ingestion of fluorine is the cause of fluorosis. There are several sources through which fluorine or fluoride may be ingested. Drinking water is the primary source of fluoride. Usually the water is safe to drink with moderate level of chronic exposure to fluoride. According to World Health Organization (WHO), a moderate level of chronic exposure is about 1.5 mg per liter of water.

In some rare cases water may become accidently contaminated with excessive amounts of fluoride. Accidents such as fires and explosions can increase the level of fluoride. Air can have abnormal amounts of fluoride due to gaseous industrial waste in commercial areas. People who are exposed to multiple sources of fluoride, such as air, food and water, are more prone to be affected by fluorosis. Excessive use of toothpaste can also be cause of fluorosis.

A person’s diet, environment and the body’s ability to dispose of fluoride will determine how fluorosis affects him/her.

What are the symptoms of Fluorosis?

In cases of mild fluorosis, there may not be any visible changes to the teeth or these changes may be visible only to a trained professional, such as your dentist. In moderate cases of fluorosis, the teeth are characterized by chalky white patches, streaks or spots. In severe cases of fluorosis, the teeth are characterized by brown, gray or black spots. The teeth may also be become pitted and the enamel may be damaged in severe cases.

How is Fluorosis diagnosed?

Dental practitioners will diagnose fluorosis by asking questions such as:

·         Did you receive fluoride supplements?

·         Did you use fluoride toothpaste?

·         Did you drink fluoridated water?

Besides asking these questions they may also ask about any past or present medical conditions which may affect the teeth. They will carefully examine the gums and teeth and if necessary, they may take x-rays to diagnose fluorosis.

 How is Fluorosis treated?

Most often cases of fluorosis are minor and do not cause any trouble. Usually fluorosis is found on the back teeth where it cannot be seen. As we have mentioned earlier, fluorosis is not so much a disease, but more of a cosmetic condition. Therefore treatment is not a necessity in mild cases of fluorosis.

In more serious cases the teeth can be treated by removing the stains through teeth whitening, teeth bleaching, sand blasting or other similar procedures.

Severe cases of fluorosis are usually treated through restorations such as bonding, veneers or crowns. Talk with your dentist or doctor about how they treat Fluorosis. 

This information has been reviewed by Matthew C Niesen MD, a resident at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics in order to help ensure the accuracy and completeness of information written.  However, this information may not be entirely complete and should be discussed with your physician prior to making any medical decisions or changes in your medical care.