Fluorosis Teeth Treatment at Dentist in kampala
Fluorosis is a condition that causes white or brown spots on your teeth. This occurs when you are exposed to excessive fluoride during your childhood, when your permanent teeth are developing. It doesn’t hurt you, but it can make your teeth look bad. If you have fluorosis, you can seek treatment at a Kampala dental clinic to improve the appearance of your teeth.
There are no tests required to diagnose fluorosis, and it is preventable by limiting your fluoride intake. Fluorosis has no negative impact on your health or daily life if it is managed and treated properly.
What is fluorosis?
Fluorosis is a cosmetic dental condition that’s characterized by white or brown spots on your teeth. These spots can range from tiny white flecks that are almost unnoticeable to dark brown patches that are clearly visible.
Who does fluoride affect?
Fluorosis affects people who were exposed to excessive fluoride when they were young and their adult teeth had not yet developed. Children aged 8 and under are at a higher risk of developing fluorosis. Fluorosis has no effect on teeth that have already formed.
Does fluorosis weaken teeth?
No Fluorosis in the mouth has no effect on oral health or function. In fact, people who have fluorosis are more resistant to cavities. This discovery prompted health officials to introduce fluoride at a safe level into public water supplies. This means that fluoride levels in public water supplies would be high enough to help prevent tooth decay but not high enough to cause fluorosis.
What are the symptoms of fluorosis?
Here are 5 symptoms of fluorosis
- White spots on teeth: The appearance of white spots on the teeth is one of the most common symptoms of fluorosis. With regular brushing or cleaning, these stains may be difficult to remove.
- Brown stains on teeth: In more severe cases of fluorosis, brown stains on the teeth may appear. These stains may be more visible and more difficult to remove.
- Pitted or rough teeth: Fluorosis can cause the surface of the teeth to become pitted or rough. This can result in rough or uneven teeth.
- Pain or sensitivity: Severe fluorosis may cause tooth pain or sensitivity. This is especially noticeable when eating or drinking hot or cold foods or beverages.
- Changes in bone structure: In rare cases, severe fluorosis can cause changes in bone structure, including joint pain or stiffness. However, this is a rare symptom that usually occurs after prolonged exposure to extremely high levels of fluoride.
What are the reasons for fluorosis?
Dental fluorosis occurs when a child consumes an excessive amount of fluoride while their permanent teeth are still forming beneath their gums. This includes drinking fluoridated water and using fluoride toothpaste.
Adults do not develop dental fluorosis. It only affects teeth that are still forming beneath the gums.
Exactly how is fluorosis identified?
Fluorosis can be identified by your dentist during a routine dental examination.
Does Fluorosis go away?
It is impossible to remove fluorosis stains by brushing and flossing. Fluorosis can only be treated with cosmetic dental procedures like dental bonding, veneers, or crowns. The treatments are discussed in more detail in the section that follows.
Fluoride Teeth Treatment at Dentist in kampala
How do you get rid of fluorosis?
In Uganda, dental clinics can provide these treatments to correct fluorosis. It is important to consult a dentist to determine the best course of action for your specific case of fluorosis. Here are 5 ways to get rid of fluorosis:
- Dental cleaning: Regular dental cleaning can help to remove surface stains caused by fluorosis. Your dentist may use a special polishing paste to gently scrub away the stains.
- Teeth whitening: Professional teeth whitening treatments can help to lighten the color of fluoridated teeth. This can be done in-office or with take-home trays provided by your dentist.
- Dental bonding: Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the surface of the teeth to cover up stains and discoloration.
- Dental Veneers: Veneers are thin shells that are custom-made to fit over the front of the teeth. They can be used to cover up severe staining caused by fluorosis.
- Dental Crowns: In some cases, crowns may be necessary to correct the color of severely fluoridated teeth. Teeth crowns are caps that are placed over the teeth to improve their appearance and function.
When should I schedule a visit with my doctor?
Make an appointment with your dentist if fluorosis stains make you feel embarrassed or self-conscious. They can go into great detail about your treatment options.
A note from Dental solutions Kampala
Dental fluorosis is a harmless condition, but it can make your smile appear less attractive. Schedule an appointment with your dentist at dental solutions Kampala, if tooth discoloration is causing you embarrassment or low self-esteem. They will discuss your cosmetic goals with you and create a treatment plan that is unique to you.