Dental Fluorosis
by Mahmoud H. Al-Johani
1. Created by http://www.SaudiDent.com
2. Definition
2.1. Enamel fluorosis is a demineralization of the dental enamel caused by excessive ingestion of fluoride during the years of tooth calcification. Its appearance can range from very mild (barely noticeable whitish striations on only portions of the teeth) to very severe (heavy stains with pitting on all surfaces of teeth).
3. Dean's index (Mottled enamel index)
3.1. 1. Normal: Smooth, glossy, pale creamy-white translucent surface
3.2. 2. Questionable: A few white flecks or white spots
3.3. 3. Very mild: Small opaque, paper white areas covering less than 25% of the tooth surface
3.4. 4. Mild: Opaque white areas covering less than 50% of the tooth surface
3.5. 5. Moderate: All tooth surfaces affected; marked wear on biting surfaces; brown stain may be present
3.6. 6. Severe: All tooth surfaces affected; discrete or confluent pitting; brown stain present
3.7. Hints
3.7.1. Each tooth is examined and assigned to one of six categories according to its degree of fluorosis.
3.7.2. Classification of a person is based on the two teeth more affected by fluorosis
3.7.3. If the two teeth are not equally affected, the classification given is that of the less involved tooth