Dental Fluorosis in Livermore: Causes, Prevention and Treatment

Dental fluorosis is caused when you consume too much fluoride while developing your adult teeth, and it alters the appearance of your tooth enamel. Fluoride is a necessary component that helps prevent cavities and promotes strong teeth, but excessive exposure may cause slight to visible changes in the enamel as told by a dentist in Livermore, CA. Knowing the causes of this condition, how to prevent it, and what treatment options are available can help residents of Livermore understand this condition and its effects.

Dental Fluorosis

Dental fluorosis is due to overconsumption of fluoride by young children (below age eight) during the time their permanent teeth are being formed. It primarily affects the aesthetics of the teeth, causing discoloration or irregularities in the enamel.

While they compromise neither strength nor function, they remain a cosmetic concern since those teeth can appear stained or mottled. Fluorosis can be mild, moderate or severe.

  • Slight Fluorosis: Found exhibiting as minute white patches or lines on the groups of teeth.
  • Moderate Fluorosis: This can lead to more pronounced white or brown discoloration.
  • Severe Fluorosis: Cannot be up to the flu-like amount of staining and pitting that it leaves on the enamel

What Causes Dental Fluorosis?

Fluorosis is associated with high levels of fluoride exposure during the growth stage. Here are some common sources of fluoride:

  • Fluoride in Drinking Water: Municipal water supplies may contain fluoride to prevent cavities. In excessive amounts, which should be avoided in children, water with fluoride can lead to fluorosis.
  • Fluoride in Toothpaste: Toddlers and other young kids who use too much toothpaste or swallow it while brushing put themselves at risk.
  • Fluoride supplements: Excessive dosage or improper use of fluoride supplements prescribed for the prevention of tooth decay may also cause fluorosis.
  • Processed foods and beverages: Foods and beverages made with fluoridated water may contain larger amounts of fluoride than expected.

How to Avoid Dental Fluorosis

The prevention of dental fluorosis comes down to controlling fluoride exposure in children. Here are some tips for Livermore parents and caregivers:

  • Keep an Eye on Fluoride Water Levels: Look into the fluoride levels of your local water line. In the event of high levels, using bottled water or a fluoride-reducing water filter for drinking and cooking is advised.
  • Fluoride toothpaste in moderation: For children younger than 6 years of age, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and supervise brushing to ensure he/she spits it out rather than swallow the toothpaste.
  • Do not give fluoride supplements unless necessary: Fluoride supplements should never be given without the recommendation of a dentist or pediatrician, and follow their dosage instructions exactly.
  • Have Your Children Brush Right: Parents should teach children the proper brushing technique and explain to them that swallowing distressed toothpaste can increase fluoride uptake.

How Do Dentists in Livermore Play Their Part?

Preventing and controlling dental fluorosis is the task of dentists in Livermore. Regular dental checkups are necessary to keep track of fluoride exposure and any early signs of the condition. Dentists may also offer tips for proper brushing or suggest appropriate cosmetic treatments to enhance the appearance of fluorosis-affected teeth.

Dental fluorosis, though mostly cosmetic can affect a person’s self-confidence and self-esteem. However, knowing why it happens and how to prevent it can help Livermore parents reap the benefits of fluoride without the risk of overexposing their children. However, if you are already suffering from them, modern dentistry can help and offer you a proper treatment to regain your gleamed teeth in no time. Consult your dentist in Livermore to learn about preventive care for dental fluorosis and determine the best possible course of treatment.