Many dentist consider dental fluorosis, strictly a
cosmetic concern because its usually chalky streaks or splotches on one or more teeth. The NRC panel determined that 10% of kids living in communities where the drinking water is close to the EPA upper limit of safe exposure develop severe dental fluorosis; not only yellow and brown stains on their teeth but also pits in the enamel, increasing the risk of cavities. Rates of dental fluorosis appear to be on the rise. The CDC says the percentage of Americans between ages 6-19 with fluorosis jumped from 23% in the late 1980s to 32% today. To prevent severe dental fluorosis, the NRC panel advised the EPA to lower the amount of fluoride in drinking water.
Written by Linette Wilson and Bernadette Charles
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