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White Spots On Teeth Treatment (Fluorosis)

Causes, Treatment and Prevention

Fluorosis Cheltenham

White Spots On Teeth Treatment (Fluorosis) Cheltenham

Fluoride is a mineral that protects the tooth enamel by combining with the minerals in our teeth to form stronger, more acid-resistant enamel.

Systemic fluoride works when teeth are developing in childhood and is ingested in food and fluoridated water, also in supplements prescribed by your Cheltenham dentist.

Topical fluoride is found in fluoride toothpaste and mouthwashes, working to protect your teeth from the outside.

Despite the benefits of fluoride, overexposure as a baby and child can lead to fluorosis, which changes the look of the teeth, including causing white spots on teeth and/or mottled teeth.

Fluorosis Case Studies

fluorosis before case 1 dentist cheltenham fluorosis after case 1 dentist cheltenham
fluorosis before case 2 dentist cheltenham fluorosis after case 2 dentist cheltenham
fluorosis before case 3 dentist cheltenham fluorosis after case 3 dentist cheltenham

Causes of Fluorosis

A main cause of fluorosis is the incorrect use of fluoride-containing dental products such as toothpaste and mouth rinses.

Sometimes, children enjoy the taste of toothpaste so much that they swallow instead of spitting it out.

Other causes of fluorosis…

For example, taking higher-than-prescribed amounts of fluoride supplements during early childhood can cause it.

So as taking a fluoride supplement when fluoridated drinking water or fluoride-fortified fruit juices and softdrinks already provide the right amount.

Symptoms of Fluorosis Cheltenham

Symptoms of Fluorosis

In general, teeth will be smooth, glossy and creamy white in appearance.

The severity of fluorosis depends widely, from mild to severe, but common fluorosis symptoms include:

  • White spots on teeth
  • Black spots on teeth
  • White streaks on teeth
  • Discoloured teeth
  • Mottled teeth
  • Pitted teeth

Treatment for Fluorosis

In mild fluorosis, no treatment is required.

In more severe cases, there are several treatment options aimed at improving the appearance of the affected teeth.

Fluorosis treatment options may include:

  • Removal of stains through teeth whitening
  • Adding a hard resin coating to the tooth, which bonds with tooth enamel (dental bonding)
  • Crowns and veneers

Fluorosis Treatment in Cheltenham

Most fluorosis cases are mild, not painful, and don’t cause any permanent damage to a child’s teeth.

For severe fluorosis, it can usually be treated through a number of cosmetic dentistry techniques such as whitening or veneers.

Parents can help prevent fluorosis by supervising children, especially toddlers, while they brush their teeth and make sure children start having regular dental check-ups by the time they’re a year old.

Visit your dentist in Cheltenham to know more about your oral health condition and what we can do to improve it.

For your dental concerns and enquiries, call us on (03) 9583 5506 or book your appointment online.

We are located at Suite C, 151 Centre Dandenong Road in Cheltenham.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is fluorosis?
Fluorosis causes changes in the appearance of tooth enamel. It may result when children consume fluoride regularly during the teeth-forming years.
What causes fluorosis?
Fluorosis is caused by taking in too much fluoride over long periods when the teeth are forming under the gums.
What can I do to prevent my child from developing fluorosis?
The possibility of developing fluorosis exists until about age eight because teeth are still developing under the gums. Getting the right amount of fluoride is best — not too much and not too little.