You can find chemical fluorine everywhere. It’s in water, soil, and even most types of food. In addition, technology has made it possible to extract fluoride from fluorine, allowing people the opportunity to use the material in drinking water, toothpaste, and mouthwash.
However, most may not know that fluoride also aids in the process of strengthening bones and teeth, making it an essential component in oral hygiene.
How Fluoride Works
The tooth enamel absorbs the fluoride and prevents tooth decay and the formation of plaque. Once the tooth enamel hardens, your teeth become healthier because it is now resistant to demineralization. It even reverses its effects by depositing essential minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, in the tooth’s damaged areas.
What Is Fluorosis?
What most people do not know is that too much fluoride is dangerous. Excessive fluoride can lead to fluorosis. It is a chronic condition that leads to several complications. Young children mostly have this. They are more susceptible to it because their teeth are still forming.
Types of Fluorosis
Dental fluorosis leads to the discoloration of the teeth, which can also cause white marks on the teeth. It can lead to a mottled enamel and low mineralization of the teeth.
On the other hand, skeletal fluorosis affects the bones. It hardens them, and it also reduces their elasticity, increasing the likelihood of getting fractures.
This disease can also lead to the impairment of joint mobility because it results in the thickening and accumulation of bone tissue.
How to Prevent and Treat It
Do not be afraid to search “dentist near me” online if you think you are suffering from dental fluorosis. For many, it can be a source of discomfort, even anxiety. However, there’s no need to fret since our dentist can administer different treatments.
We can perform teeth whitening procedures to remove the stains or dental bonding to coat your teeth to repair the damage. Dental veneers and dental crowns are also options. They are dental appliances that can restore your teeth to their original state or change their appearance altogether.
Since children are more likely to get fluorosis, parents should watch when their kids brush their teeth. Make sure your child does not ingest toothpaste. You can also monitor the level of fluoride in your drinking water. Doctors prescribe dietary supplements to children to reduce the risk of fluorosis.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know the pros and cons of fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash, and other items with fluoride, you can be mindful about your intake. Anything excessive is dangerous, even fluoride. As long as you are careful with it, you can prevent any complications from happening.
Dr. Mihirgir Bava and our team in Raleigh, NC, are here to help you and your family’s smiles thrive! If you have any dental concerns, or would like to schedule a dental checkup and exam, we welcome you to call 919-872-1700 now!