Fluoridosis

Fluoridosis
Other names	Fluorosis
Specialty	Dentistry, Public health
Symptoms	Changes in tooth enamel, bone alterations
Complications	Dental fluorosis, Skeletal fluorosis
Types	Dental, skeletal
Causes	Excessive intake of fluoride
Risk factors	High fluoride levels in water, certain foods, or industrial exposure
Diagnostic method	Clinical examination, history of fluoride exposure
Prevention	Monitoring fluoride levels, using appropriate fluoride-containing products
Treatment	Management of fluoride intake, supportive care

Fluoridosis, also known as fluorosis, is a condition caused by excessive intake of fluoride which leads to various health problems, primarily affecting the teeth and bones. It is categorized into two main types: dental fluorosis and skeletal fluorosis.

Causes

Fluoridosis occurs due to the ingestion of fluoride in amounts that exceed the levels that the body can tolerate. Common sources of excessive fluoride include:

• High fluoride levels in drinking water
• Consumption of fluoride-rich foods
• Prolonged use of fluoride-containing dental products
• Exposure to fluoride dust and fumes in industrial settings

Symptoms

Dental Fluorosis

In dental fluorosis, the changes are primarily cosmetic, affecting the enamel of the teeth. It is characterized by:

• Discoloration — ranging from white streaks to yellow, brown, or black stains
• Surface irregularities — pits or roughness in the enamel

Skeletal Fluorosis

Skeletal fluorosis involves changes to bone structure and is more severe. Symptoms include:

• Pain and stiffness in joints
• Bone deformities
• Impaired joint mobility

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of fluoridosis is based on:

• Clinical examination of teeth and bones
• Patient history regarding fluoride exposure
• Sometimes, analysis of fluoride levels in the body

Prevention

Preventing fluoridosis involves:

• Monitoring fluoride levels in community water supplies
• Educating the public about appropriate use of fluoride-containing products
• Regulation of industrial emissions containing fluoride

Treatment

Treatment focuses on reducing fluoride exposure and managing symptoms:

• Adjusting the level of fluoride intake
• Supportive care for bone pain and stiffness in cases of skeletal fluorosis

Epidemiology

The prevalence of fluoridosis varies globally, depending on natural fluoride levels in water and the use of fluoride-containing products.

See also

• Water fluoridation
• Environmental health
• Toxicology