Coronal Polish Certification Practice Test

Excessive intake of fluoride can lead to dental fluorosis, which is a condition that affects the appearance and integrity of the enamel. This occurs when high levels of fluoride are ingested during the years of tooth development, typically in childhood when the permanent teeth are forming.

Dental fluorosis manifests as discoloration or mottling of the teeth, with mild cases showing white spots, while severe cases can lead to brown stains and surface irregularities. The condition results from the fluoride interfering with the normal mineralization process of the enamel, thereby causing changes in its structure.

While tooth hypersensitivity, enamel erosion, and gingivitis may involve various factors related to oral hygiene, diet, and overall dental care, they are not primarily caused by excessive fluoride consumption. Understanding this distinction highlights the unique repercussions fluoride can have when consumed in excess, particularly during formative years of dental development.