Fluorine is a common element abundant in the earth’s crust. Naturally, the mineral occurs in the soil, rocks, and water with higher concentrations in places that have experienced geologic uplift1. Many industrial processes are dependent on fluorides due to their use. The primary source of systemic fluoride is exposure to food diets and fluoride-containing toothpaste or other dental products. One of the most important achievements of the 20th century is community drinking water fluoridation to curb dental fluorosis2. However, the decline in dental caries has been alongside increased dental fluorosis prevalence and side effects of excessive fluoride exposure.
Fluorine plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of teeth and skeleton3. For teeth, excessive fluoride intake may lead to dental fluorosis, but adequate intake reduces dental caries. However, one needs to take fluoride within the limits as the effects can be detrimental to dental health. Fluorosis is a cosmetic condition that affects the teeth. It results from overexposure to fluoride during the first eight years of life4. This period is when most permanent teeth are developing. After the teeth come out, those affected by fluorosis may appear to be mildly colored. For example, lacy white markings might be evident which can be detected. Under severe cases, the teeth can have surface irregularities, pits that are noticeable and yellow strains. Dental fluorosis has been prevalent globally, with the United States recording a portion of 23% of people having the diseases5. The effect of fluorosis can be embarrassing and difficult to treat.
References
- Helmenstine T. Abundance of Elements in Earth’s Crust – Periodic Table and List. 2020. Web.
- Esemag. Environmental Science & Engineering Magazine: 2018. Web.
- Brickley MB, Mays S. Fluorosis. Fluorosis – an Overview. Science Direct Topics. 2019. Web.
- CDC. Fluorosis | Community Water Fluoridation FAQs | Community Water Fluoridation | Division of Oral Health | CDC. Cdc.gov. 2021. Web.
- Neurath C, Limeback H, Osmunson B, Connett M, Kanter V, Wells C. Dental Fluorosis Trends in US Oral Health Surveys: 1986 to 2012.