By To treat fluorosis, we must know that it is not due to poor hygiene, but enamel malformation for which there are multiple treatments.
Fluorosis is a disease that affects the bones and teeth during their development. It is due to excessive ingestion of fluoride during childhood, which interferes with normal formation of enamel and causes sequelae in it. Although it is proven that fluoride prevents us from caries and a great ally to preserve oral health, it must be taken into account that, in order to benefit from its qualities, its use must be topical. There are different presentations of fluorine like gels and varnishes that are not intended to be swallowed, since fluoride, in large quantities, can cause death.
Causes
It appears by the consumption of fluorine in high concentrations;
- Ingestion of water contaminated with fluoride, by industrial waste or because the fluoride concentrations in the area are naturally higher.
- Consumption of foods treated with pesticides based on fluorine.
- Inappropriate use of toothpaste with fluoride in childhood.
Symptoms
The symptoms of fluorosis, from minor to major severity, are as follows;
- Appearance of white or opaque spots on enamel.
- Larger dark stains that already cover large areas of the tooth.
- Cracks in the surface of tooth.
- Enamel has symptoms similar to acid corrosion.
Diagnosis
For the correct diagnosis of fluorosis, other diseases with similar symptoms should be ruled out. It could be confused with the effects of intolerance to untreated gluten or genetic enamel malformations. For this reason, it is sometimes necessary to perform complementary tests to discard them and choose the most effective treatment.
Treatment
Today, there are many treatment options for fluorosis that adapt to the severity of the symptoms and the needs of each patient.
In case of patients with mild issue, undergoing dental cleaning by the hand of a professional dentist can bring great benefits. Since it would make the symptoms disappear, but only temporarily, as the spots reappear continuously which forces the patient to undergo cleanings continuously.
Whenever necessary, the dentist will opt for reconstructive treatments of the cracks or gaps present in the enamel, since any cleft causes accumulation of bacteria.
People who seek definitive treatment or have serious injuries may opt for the use of veneers or dental crowns. It consists of replacing enamel with ceramic pieces created for the patient with good functionality and aesthetic results. Any of these treatments should be performed in a dental clinic. If you think you have any of the symptoms of fluorosis, you should not hesitate to consult your dentist. The treatment will be more efficient in case of early diagnosis.
