What is the Most Common Cause of Fluorosis?

78% of fluorosis can be attributed to children using more than the recommended “pea-size” amount of fluoride toothpaste and/or inapproriate use of fluoride supplements.

The estimated proportion of all cases of mild-to-moderate fluorosis
in fluoridated communities that can be attributed to early use of more than the recommended amount of fluoride toothpaste and inappropriate use of fluoride supplements.

Toothpastes contain high levels of fluoride (1000 – 1500 ppm). Unfortunately children often swallow toothpaste, even though toothpaste is meant specifically for topical application. Parents must be informed that children should use a “pea-size” amount, in case of incidental ingestion.

Fluoride tablets are meant to be taken only by children who do not have access to fluoridated water.  Fluoride tablets may be prescribed inappropriately.

Fluorosis only occurs when the fluoride levels exceed the optimum level. Public water fluoridation delivers very low levels of fluoride on a regular basis, the method least likely to cause fluorosis.