Fluorosis can occur due to ingesting fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash or drinking water with high levels of fluoride. It tends to develop in childhood when enamel is forming on adult teeth and commonly causes white marks on the teeth due to malformation of the tooth enamel. When it's severe, fluorosis can causes the affected teeth to become heavily stained or pitted, which can negatively impact on self-esteem. Fluorosis won't resolve on its own and dentists don't tend to recommend treating the problem in children unless the damage to enamel is severe and there's an increased risk of tooth decay as a result. However, adults with fluorosis may want to treat the condition for aesthetic reasons, and there are a few treatment options to consider. Read on to learn about the main treatment options for fluorosis.
Microabrasion
Microabrasion is a procedure that involves removing a very fine layer of enamel from the affected teeth. The aim is to make the white spots disappear or be less noticeable. Your dentist will use a file and the process is similar to using sandpaper on wood. This procedure requires overall strong, healthy enamel and is suited to those with mild fluorosis.
Whitening
Professional teeth whitening may be a suitable treatment for mild to moderate fluorosis and aims to even out the colour of affected teeth by brightening the enamel, which can reduce the appearance of white marks. This treatment should be carried out by your dentist, as active ingredients in home teeth whitening kits may not be suitable for your teeth depending on the overall impact of fluorosis on your enamel.
Veneers
A veneer is a thin porcelain covering that can be bonded to the surface of a tooth affected by fluorosis. It conceals the white spots and any other imperfections, but your dentist will have to carry out microabrasion first to prepare your tooth and ensure the dental bonding material will adhere to the surface of the tooth. Veneers are suited to those affected by severe fluorosis that has significantly altered the colour of their teeth or caused damage to the enamel. The veneer not only covers discolouration but also prevents decay forming on the surface of an already compromised tooth surface.
If any of your teeth have signs of fluorosis and you'd like to find out about the best treatment approach for you, consult your dentist. They will review the overall condition of the affected teeth and make a treatment recommendation based on the degree of discolouration present.
Share4 April 2022
As a mother, I've seen my kids' faces light up after they've lost a tooth – oh, the excitement they feel about getting their grown up teeth! However, I've also seen my kids become extremely scared and anxious after having an adult tooth knocked out. If you're a mom or a dad with a busy kid, chances are you might see a tooth knocked out in a skateboarding accident or a sport pile-up. This blog is dedicated to those moments when you could lose your wits, and it's here to ensure you don't. I am collecting and curating the best information about kids and dental emergencies here so that you will have it when you need it. Best of luck with your kids' smiles!
