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Dental Fluorosis Cause — NDEB AFK MCQ

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EasyCommunity Dentistry & EpidemiologyDental Fluorosis CauseNDEB AFK

Which of the following is the primary cause of dental fluorosis?

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Correct answer: DExcessive systemic fluoride ingestion during enamel development (birth to approximately age 8)

Dental fluorosis results from excessive systemic fluoride ingestion during the critical period of enamel formation (birth to approximately 6-8 years for most permanent teeth). Sources include swallowing fluoridated toothpaste, fluoride supplement over-prescription, and high-fluoride drinking water. Severity ranges from mild (white flecks/striations) to severe (brown staining with pitting). Fluorosis at 0.7 ppm water fluoridation is typically very mild and aesthetically acceptable.

Reference: Fejerskov & Kidd – Dental Caries: The Disease and Its Clinical Management, 3rd ed., 2015