What is Dental Fluorosis commonly referred to as?

Dental fluorosis is commonly referred to as mottled enamel. This condition occurs due to excessive fluoride exposure during early childhood when teeth are developing. The excess fluoride affects the enamel's normal formation, leading to surface irregularities, which often manifest as white spots, streaks, or a mottled appearance on the teeth.

This distinction is important because it helps recognize and differentiate dental fluorosis from other dental conditions. Cavity formation refers to the decay of tooth structure, which is not directly related to the effects of fluoride, while enamel caries specifically indicate a decay process that has impacted the enamel surface. Hypoplasia refers to an incomplete or underdeveloped dental enamel, which has a different etiology and appearance compared to dental fluorosis. Understanding these differences is crucial for proper identification and treatment within dental practice.