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What is Fluorosis?

Posted on December 4, 2009 by Dr. White

Special Precautions and use of fluoride in children

Fluorosis Free

Fluoride based toothpastes have been well known for their rich beneficial action in preventing tooth decay in children.

Many experiments have been conducted by researchers and doctors on fluoride and they have all confirmed the role of fluoride in prevention of tooth decay and tooth discoloring in children. Most of the toothpastes sold worldwide have fluoride in them to keep our teeth healthy.

Fluorosis and its origin

Fluorosis is the discoloring of teeth in children. Children having Fluorosis develop brown stains on their teeth. Although this can be present in anyone, children aged below 6 have higher risk of suffering from dental Fluorosis.

If your child consumes more fluoride than is suggested, in his early days while his teeth are developing, this extra fluoride leads to deformation of enamel of the tooth, thus causing Fluorosis.

Children use extra fluoride toothpaste and generally swallow it without spitting. The intake of fluoride also increases because of the consumption of fluoridated water.

This is not considered a disease but is rather a cosmetic effect, where some may have light discoloring effect while some children have deep brown stains on their teeth. Many times Fluorosis is very mild and may not require treatment, while some children develop Fluorosis on the backside of their teeth, which does not get noticed.

What is Fluorosis?

Precaution in children below 6

Although Fluorosis is caused by extra fluoride in children, the effect from usage of fluoride based toothpaste is considered less.

In most of the countries, fluoride based toothpastes carry printed advice for parents to use in very quantities for children. Ideally only a small smear or pea-sized amount should be applied to children’s brush.

Parents should also advice their children to spit after brushing and not to swallow the toothpaste. Also parents should keep all such fluoride based products like mouthwash, toothpaste, especially those which have a very good flavor, out of reach of their children.

Furthermore if your drinking water contains fluoride, then a consultation with dentist is advisable.

Fluorosis is not a disease and can be prevented

Fluorosis is a cosmetic discoloration and a careful supervision on your child’s brushing habits can prevent it.

There are several toothpastes available in the market especially for children below 6. Use of such mild toothpastes is advisable.

If using fluoride toothpaste, apply a very little amount on your child’s tooth brush. Also, get a regular teeth check-up done for your children by a good dentist.

To attempt to counteract the yellowing effects of fluorosis, try a Teeth Whitening product like Easy White.

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