What Will Happen if You Take Too Much Fluoride?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and promotes mineralization, both assisting in preventing cavities. Fluoride is added to drinking water worldwide. The American Dental Association's Seal of Acceptance calls for a ratio of 0.7 parts per million. Moreover, fluoride is also an ingredient in all toothpaste. Because it helps prevent tooth decay, experts on general dentistry Monument, CO, say that it is essential to get healthy teeth.  

All About Fluoridation  

Dental Fluorosis  

Fluoride overexposure during childhood causes dental fluorosis, characterized by increased calcium signaling, mitochondrial function, and gene expression in the cells generating tooth enamel.    

While brushing, the fluoride in toothpaste is absorbed by the teeth. It shields teeth from acid assaults from plaque bacteria and oral carbohydrates. Fluoride hardens the enamel when integrated into teeth, making it resistant to demineralization, which is the leading cause of tooth decay and cavities. Many types of toothpastes contain fluoride supplements to strengthen the enamel and prevent tooth decay.  

By placing minerals like calcium and phosphorus in tooth damage sites, fluoride reverses the effects of demineralization and prevents decay - this process is called remineralization. A topical fluoride treatment accelerates the pace of tooth enamel growth and the size of the enamel crystals. Additionally, the teeth are less susceptible to dental decay when the enamel crystals are more significant.  

Fluoride Dose  

The tooth enamel is strengthened and protected by moderate fluoride doses, but it's crucial to remember that high fluoride levels can lead to health problems like fluorosis. Dental fluorosis results in tooth discoloration, white spots are developing on the teeth, a mottled enamel, and low mineralization.  

Most young children who acquire fluorosis do so because of excessive fluoride exposure. Children are more prone to fluorosis until age nine, while their teeth are still growing. Therefore, parents and other caregivers need to take precautions to reduce the risks associated with fluoride.  

Health Issues Related to Fluorosis  

• Neurological Conditions    

Children exposed to high fluoride levels before birth have the lower cognitive ability. According to a 2017 study, low IQ test results were associated with high fluoride levels. Because fluoride is a known neurotoxin, it may harm a child's growth and development.  

• Thyroid Issues    

Fluoride exposure can harm the thyroid gland and cause an uncontrolled overproduction of parathyroid hormones – this condition is known as hyperparathyroidism. The disorder produces aberrant calcium concentrations in the blood and calcium depletion in the bones.  

• Fluorosis of the Bone  

Skeletal fluorosis is a bone disease brought on by exposure to high fluoride levels. This illness causes bones to become more rigid and less pliable, which increases the chance of fractures. Due to the thickening and buildup of bone tissue, the condition can also impede joint mobility.  

General Dentistry in Monument, CO, Includes Fluoride Therapy  

Many people may experience discomfort or anxiety as a result of fluorosis. A lot of different treatments are available, depending on the symptoms you've had. These consist of the following:  

• Dental Crowns  

Injured teeth can be repaired and returned to their original size, form, and functionality with crowns, which are dental caps.  

• Veneers  

Veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells frequently bonded to the front of the teeth to improve their aesthetics.  

• Dental Bonding  

This treatment includes covering the tooth with a rigid resin coating that adheres to the enamel.  

If you think your kid is suffering from fluorosis, don’t hesitate to contact our general dentists. We are always glad to be of service. Ring us for more information!  

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