Does Your Child Have Dental Fluorosis?

Ahh, so THAT’S what those white spots are…

If you’ve ever “spotted” multiple white spots on the surface of a person’s teeth, or better yet, if you’re noticing them appear on your child’s chompers – then keep reading!

Dental Fluorosis: A Relatively Common Cosmetic Issue

“Dental fluorosis” is a condition that causes permanent white spots or brown discolouration to form on the surfaces of a child’s teeth during their development – with an over-consumption of fluoride to blame. That said, we think it’s important to note that fluoride is entirely safe and beneficial for the teeth when used in appropriate doses.

“Should I worry about fluorosis?”

If you or your child is sporting those extra white spots on your teeth, (and the reason is confirmed by a dentist to be fluorosis), then you need not worry about it from a health standpoint. Teeth with fluorosis are not at a higher risk for complications or tooth decay, however, they may be an aesthetic concern for many people. Luckily, there are cosmetic dental treatments available that can help to mask the appearance of these white or brown spots, such as teeth whitening, bonding and veneers.

Protecting your child’s smile from dental fluorosis

It’s important to ensure that your child isn’t swallowing more fluoride than he or she should. Fluoride is present in most sources of drinking water, and toothpastes and mouth rinse provide a great opportunity for daily topical fluoride treatment – which means they shouldn’t be swallowed. Only supply your child with toothpaste or mouth rinse containing fluoride if you are confident that he or she is capable of spitting it all out, and not accidentally swallowing any.

Regardless; every parent or caretaker should bring their little one to visit the dentist as soon as their first tooth erupts, or before the age of one. The dentist will be able to explain in further detail about the appropriate ways to supply fluoride to your child to strengthen and protect his or her teeth – and not cause fluorosis.

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