Fluorosis Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Fluorosis Overview Fluorosis refers to a dental condition associated with the formation of brown or white speckles on the teeth. These speckles often range from almost-unnoticeable tiny white flecks to conspicuous dark-brown patches. Generally considered a cosmetic issue, fluorosis is not harmful to the general health; nonetheless, several treatments may be used to address the issue. Dental fluorosis primarily affects people exposed to excess levels of fluoride during their developmental years, before the eruption of the adult (permanent) teeth. Teeth that have already erupted cannot develop fluorosis. Causes and risk factors Dental fluorosis is a consequence of the consistent ingestion of excess levels of fluoride by children while their permanent teeth continue to form. Methods of ingestion include swallowing fluoride toothpaste or the consumption of heavily fluoridated water. Given that fluorosis only affects the developing teeth (under the gums), it does not occur in adults. Symptoms Depending upon how severe fluorosis is, the extent of tooth discoloration, which is often the only symptom of fluorosis, varies. Fluorosis can be categorised as follows:Questionable: Only a few light-white spots and flecks on the tooth surface.Very mild: Light-white areas covering less than 25% of the tooth surface.Mild: Light-white areas covering less than 50% of the tooth surface.Moderate: Light-brown or white areas covering over 50% of the tooth surface.Severe: Light- or dark-brown or white spots affecting the surfaces of all teeth; pitting may also be observed.Dental fluorosis does not impact oral function or overall oral health; interestingly, fluorosis has been found to render teeth more resistant to cavities. Diagnosis Fluorosis is often diagnosed during routine dental examinations.If the fluorosis stains make patients conscious, they are advised to schedule an appointment with a dentist, who will discuss the treatment options in detail. Treatment As brushing and flossing are generally ineffective, cosmetic dental treatments, such as the application of veneers or crowns or dental bonding, represent the only method to get rid of fluorosis. Several factors, including the severity of fluorosis and the patient’s personal preferences and budget, influence the choice of treatment. The common methods for fluorosis treatment include the following:Teeth whitening: The teeth are treated with a bleaching gel for a specific time duration. Thus, the tooth enamel is lightened to a shade that matches the white specks of fluorosis. This method is often a viable for treating patients with mild fluorosis.Dental bonding: A resin made from a tooth-coloured composite is used to conceal the fluorosis stains. Then, the dentist polishes and shapes the teeth to give it a natural look.Dental veneers: Custom-made veneers (thin resin, ceramic, or porcelain shells that adhere permanently to the front surfaces of the teeth) are created by making a dental impression to achieve the correct size and fit.Dental crowns: Similar to veneers, crowns are often custom-made. However, because crowns are fit over the entire tooth, some of the natural enamel will need to be removed to ensure that proper fitting of the crown.Enamel microabrasion: A small layer of enamel is removed to eliminate several fluorosis stains. Often, enamel microabrasion is combined with teeth whitening to ensure uniformity in teeth colour.