The fluoridation of municipal water supplies is perhaps one of the most controversial topics in the U.S. today. While fluoride is known to protect teeth and prevent tooth decays, there is also growing scientific evidence that excessive exposure to fluoride, which one could get from fluoride treatment in water, can also cause certain diseases, particularly dental and skeletal fluorosis
As an article in Medical News Today explains, in the worst cases, dental fluorosis can cause mottled teeth, and skeletal fluorosis can result in bone and joint damage. At the very least, over exposure to fluoride can result in discolored teeth.
Pennsylvania residents can definitely relate to the concern on public fluoridation of water: House Bill 1382, which was introduced in April 29, 2009, would have made fluoridation mandatory throughout the state if it was passed into law.
Regardless of what they feel about the practice, opponents and proponents of fluoridation can agree that it causes tooth discoloration. This is the kind of condition that no amount of brushing and flossing can fix. However, people with discolored or yellowish teeth from fluoridation can find a solution when they visit a respected dentist in Dallas, PA, like Dr. James DeFinnis, for an in-office tooth whitening treatment.
While teeth discoloration may be the least serious manifestation of dental fluorosis, it is something that people cannot ignore or take lightly. Discolored teeth can ruin even the nicest smile, which could greatly affect a person’s self-confidence. Likewise, studies have shown that stained or discolored teeth can have significant negative effects on one’s employment and relationship prospects.
Over exposure to fluoride, however, makes up just a small percentage of teeth discoloration causes. Typically, teeth get discolored from frequent consumption of highly pigmented foods and drinks, like chocolates, coffee, and citrus fruits—actually, the same food items that may cause tooth decay. Yellowish teeth may also be a sign of exposure to chemicals, like tetracycline antibiotics, during one’s prenatal development.
Although commercial whitening products are available, their effectiveness pales in comparison to the in-office treatments offered by a cosmetic dentistry in Dallas, PA. For one thing, the oral exam performed prior to the procedure can determine the root cause of the discoloration, including the possibility of over exposure to fluoride. If this or something similarly intensive is the cause, then the dentist will have to be more thorough. This type of discoloration affects both the outer and inner layers of teeth, and treatment has to be applied accordingly. Commercial whitening products can only remove stains on the outer layer.
