Does My Child Have Fluorosis?

Are you familiar with fluorosis? It’s a cosmetic condition that affects teeth in different ways, and it can happen when children ingest too much fluoride during the first eight years of life. Your family dentist in San Antonio, TX, can diagnose and treat fluorosis in your child.

Is Fluorosis Dangerous?

Fluorosis is usually mild and typically only affects the appearance of teeth, although in severe cases, it can cause nausea and vomiting. If your child has ingested a large amount of fluoride all at once, they may need treatment at the nearest hospital.

Signs of this condition include tooth discoloration, pitted enamel, and surface irregularities in teeth. Some cases of fluorosis are difficult to notice, while others are visibly apparent. If your child has good oral hygiene habits and sees the dentist regularly, yet still has teeth that are discolored or appear to have white streaks, fluorosis may be to blame. If your child receives a diagnosis of fluorosis, your dentist will go over your options for treatment.

How Does Fluorosis Happen?

Fluorosis usually happens when young children ingest fluoride from too many sources. For instance, if they’re swallowing fluoride toothpaste instead of spitting it out and then drinking fluoridated water as well as taking fluoride supplements, they may be getting too much. If this goes on for several years, their teeth may begin to show signs of deterioration.

To prevent this situation, monitor your young children when they brush their teeth to ensure they’re not swallowing the toothpaste. Find out whether your city enhances its tap water with fluoride, and if so, supplement with bottled water. And be cautious when buying bottled water, because it may be fluoridated, as well.

How Is Fluorosis Treated?

Your dentist in San Antonio, TX, has multiple options for treating mild to severe fluorosis. These include a variety of cosmetic procedures:

  • Teeth whitening
  • Bonding
  • Veneers
  • Crowns
  • Microabrasion

The visible signs of fluorosis usually become apparent between the ages of 12 and 15, though children as young as six and adults up to age 49 have been diagnosed with this condition. Simple cosmetic dentistry will correct most symptoms of fluorosis.

If you would like to learn more about fluorosis and your child, schedule a dental appointment today with Tran Dental P.C. in San Antonio, TX.