Fluorosis - Symptom, Causes, Treatment of Fluorosis

Fluorosis is the excessive accumulation of fluoride in the body, particularly in teeth and banes, caused by taking in too much fluoride. Fluorosis commonly affects communities where the natural fluaride level in the drinking water is higher than 10 parts per million.

Occasionally fluorosis can be caused by a chronic overdosage of fluoride tablets or, in children, from long-term swallowing of fluoride toothpaste. No problems from fluorosis have arisen because of the fluoridation of water supplies.

The earliest sign of fluorosis is the appearance of irregular, chalky white patches on the teeth. The patches soon become stained yellow or brown to give a characteristic mottled appearance. Severe fluorosis weakens tooth enamel, harms bones and may lead to anaemia by reducing red blood cell production, but is usually seen nly in adults after prolonged high intake.

Fluorosis can be prevented by drinking rain-water in high-fluoride areas. Anyone on fluoride tablets should take only the recommended dose. The Australian Dental Association has warned that children under 2 should not use fluoride tooth-paste, and that children aged 2 to 7 years should use only a pea-sized squeeze or a thin smear of children's toothpaste. Your pharmacist will suggest brands that contain less fluoride than adult tooth-paste. children should also be taught to spit prop-erly after brushing and rinsing.

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