There are two types of fluorosis, dental and skeletal, and as you can tell by their names, one affects the teeth while the other, bone. They are both caused by fluoride, which, is the ionic form of fluorine. There has been a great deal of debate over fluoride for many years now. The center of the debate is the fluoridation of water supplies. Fluoride is added to the water in many cities in order to help prevent dental decay. If ingested during the years in which your teeth are forming fluoride has been shown to prevent a large percentage of dental caries. The problem however, is the fact that too much fluoride can have negative effects.

       Dental fluorosis is primarily a cosmetic problem. Excessive ingestion of fluoride while the teeth are forming can cause a discoloration of the teeth. In mild cases it appears as a chalky white patch on the teeth but this discoloration is almost unnoticeable. In more severe cases the enamel of the teeth may have a rough, pitted appearance. One of the problems with this is that the teeth that are affected are often unresponsive to cosmetic tooth whitening procedures, or at least require more treatment.

       Skeletal fluorosis is a much more serious condition. The accumulation of fluoride can cause brittle bones, joint pain and stiffness and in sever cases can cause calcification of the ligaments, spinal cord compression and immobility. Again it can be caused by excessive ingestion of fluoride but in this case the levels ingested must be extreme. Most cases occur in India and China. Fluoride can naturally occur in drinking water and in India wells are often laden with fluoride. The amount of fluoride added to the water supplies in many cities is carefully controlled an nowhere near such extreme levels. Actually, many cities have a naturally occurring fluoride ratio higher than what is added into your average water supply.

       If you would like more information on fluorosis, please consider visiting the Atlanta Dental Group PC. Our Atlanta dentists have over 45 years of combined experience serving Atlanta's dental needs. Our dentists in Georgia are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being and you are more than welcome to join our family of patients. Our Atlanta cosmetic dentist enjoys creating beatiful smiles for his patients.  If you would like schedule an free dental consultation appointment with Atlanta dentist, call our office at to make an appointment at 404-874-7428.