Fluoride is an essential element for healthy teeth; it increases the mineralisation of enamel and protects against decay. But overexposure, while teeth are developing, can lead to dental fluorosis, a condition which interferes with enamel development causing weak enamel that can be quite unsightly. The most obvious sign of fluorosis is discolouration or white spots on the teeth. Mild to moderate fluorosis produces white lines, streaks or spots. In more severe fluorosis, the teeth can become pitted and have brown, gray or black spots. The enamel also may have an unusual shape. Fluorosis is one of the few dental conditions that has nothing to do with poor oral hygiene. It occurs only when the teeth are exposed to excess amount of fluoride when they are developing, before they erupt into the mouth, and it's also dependent on the fluoride we ingest (eat or drink), between birth and 8 years old. By the time they erupt, the damage is done and can't be reversed. However, there are various treatment options that can improve the cosmetic appearance of fluorosis teeth. Children should take fluoride supplements only if the water they drink does not contain enough fluoride and they are at high risk for cavities. If your child is taking fluoride supplements now, check the amount of fluoride in your water. If you are on a public water supply, call your supplier to ask about the fluoride level. Some foods and drinks contain fluoride. For example, many fruit juices and soft drinks contain fluoride at levels similar to fluoridated water. Some bottled waters now have added fluoride. All of this can add up. It is important to know how much fluoride you consume. Dr. Deepak Kamalanathan, one of the leading prosthodontists in Chennai, brings years of experience in advanced dental care to his flourishing practice at Apple Dental. He is well-versed on advanced dental technologies. Services provided by the doctor include Zirconia, DMLS and PFM Crowns, Implant Prosthesis, Full Mouth Oral Rehabilitation, Veneers, BPS Dentures Fixing, Smile Design, Implant Retained Dentures etc. With highly trained dental team and state-of-the-art facilities, he is passionate about bringing high quality dental care to his patients at affordable costs. Visit us @appledentalclinic for further information!