Fluorosis

Fluorosis is a tooth enamel condition caused by excessive fluoride intake during enamel formation, leading to hypomineralization and changes in translucency. Historically, fluorosis has been described as Colorado brown stain.

Most cases are mild: white opaque lines or specks; moderate: larger white patches; severe: brown staining, surface roughness, possible pitting; primarily cosmetic; enamel remains relatively strong.

Causes and risk factors: Excess fluoride exposure during childhood from drinking water with high fluoride, fluoride-containing dietary supplements, and ingestion of toothpaste or mouth rinses; regional water fluoride concentrations and intake patterns influence risk; risk highest during first eight years of life when teeth form.

Diagnosis and prevention: Diagnosed on dental examination; prevention focuses on avoiding excessive fluoride: use appropriate toothpaste amount for children (a pea-sized dab), supervise brushing, ensure drinking water fluoride level is appropriate, carefully prescribe fluoride supplements; advocate water fluoridation at optimal levels.

Treatment and prognosis: Mild cases require no treatment; moderate-to-severe may be treated for aesthetics: microabrasion, bleaching, veneers, crowns; in severe structural defects, restorative options; prognosis good with management; the condition has minimal health impact beyond aesthetics.