Complications of Fluoride

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Dental fluorosis can occur when an excess of fluoride is taken as the teeth are developing. For example, this can happen when additional fluoride supplements are taken by children under seven years of age, living in areas where the water supply is fluoridated.

In its mildest form, dental fluorosis appears as very fine pearly white lines or flecking on the surface of the teeth. This mild fluorosis is often undetectable except by a dental expert.

Severe fluorosis may lead to pitting of the enamel and discolouration. Enamel fluorosis is a result of too much fluoride, absorbed while the enamel of the teeth is forming (up to seven years of age). Severe dental fluorosis is rare in the UK.

Worldwide over 300 million people drink fluoridated water supplies; many millions more regularly use fluoridated toothpaste. In America for example, well over half of the population have fluoridated water supplies. This has led to improved levels of dental health which in turn benefits general health.