by Srikanth Radhakrishna

Created on: May 08, 2011   Last Updated: May 10, 2011

Fluoride is an anion. There are many fluoride containing compounds because fluorine is capable of forming compounds with all the elements except helium and neon. Low levels of fluoride intake help in preventing dental caries. But excessive fluoride consumption by children usually results in a disorder of the enamel known as dental fluorosis. The Center for Disease Control has reported a clear increase in the incidence of this medical condition since the 1980s. 

Children are more likely to be affected by this medical condition. It is more prevalent in rural areas where people consume water from shallow wells and hand pumps. Children with poor intake of calcium are more prone to dental fluorosis. A survey conducted in the U.S. reveals that Afro Americans are more likely to be affected by this medical disorder. Drinking water with fluorine content greater than 1 ppm (part per million) is not fit for consumption. 

In its mild form (which is most common), dental fluorosis appears as tiny specks or streaks on the surface of the teeth. The spots left by dental fluorosis are permanent. In its severe form, this medical condition causes prominent black and brown stains on the surface of the teeth. This is also called mottling of dental enamel. This medical condition may cause permanent damage to the teeth. Dentists use microabrasion, tooth bleaching and conservative restorations to treat dental fluorosis.

The control of drinking water quality is critical in preventing dental fluorosis. Fluoride occurs in drinking water naturally as a result of the geological composition of soils and bedrock. In some countries, fluoride is added to the drinking water as a public health measure for reducing cavities among the citizens. But fluoridation is not necessary.

The Safe Drinking Water Act in the United States of America prohibits addition of any substance to drinking water for preventive health care purposes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides information regarding the optimum levels of fluoride in drinking water. 

It is a good idea to get the drinking water tested by a certified laboratory. Removal of excessive fluoride from drinking water is difficult. It cannot be removed by boiling the water. Generally bone charcoal is used to de-fluoridate water. Dental products (like mouthwash and toothpaste) contain significant amounts of fluoride. Parents should train their children not to swallow toothpaste or mouthwash while cleaning their teeth. 

Parents should consistently monitor the fluoride intake of their children. They should also examine the teeth regularly. It is advisable to visit a certified dentist if there are any specks on the surface of the teeth. 

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