Aesthetic/Cosmetic Surgery and Ethical Challenges

Fluorosis is the result of an excessive intake of fluoride during enamel formation and calcification, usually the third month of gestation through the eighth year after birth.When high concentrations of fluoride are absorbed by the body, the metabolic function of the ameloblasts is altered, which leads to defective matrix formation and hypocalcification (Figure 7-2). This type of discoloration can affect the primary and the permanent dentition. Histologically, a hypomineralized porous subsurface, covered by a well-mineralized surface enamel layer, is observed. Based on the severity, fluorosis has a variety of prognoses following bleaching.When the appear- ance of pigmentation is limited to a brownish appearance only...