Pathology · single question
Which of the following is TRUE regarding Dental Fluorosis?
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Correct answer: B. Opaque areas can become more prominent with brown/black stains appearing more prominently along with the enamel
Opaque areas can become more prominent over time with brown/black staining (B) is TRUE. In mild-to-moderate fluorosis, white opaque spots are visible; in severe fluorosis, the porous hypomineralized outer enamel stains over time from extrinsic sources, producing brown and eventually black discoloration. The enamel is structurally intact but porous.
• Option A is FALSE: Fluorosis originates during the maturation stage of amelogenesis, not the cap stage. The cap stage involves enamel organ morphology.
• Option C is FALSE: Fluorosis can only develop while teeth are still forming (typically up to age 8 for permanent teeth). A 15-year-old's permanent teeth are already fully formed.
• Option D is FALSE: Fluorosis is irreversible once it occurs. Management is cosmetic only (microabrasion, veneers, bleaching).
• Option A is FALSE: Fluorosis originates during the maturation stage of amelogenesis, not the cap stage. The cap stage involves enamel organ morphology.
• Option C is FALSE: Fluorosis can only develop while teeth are still forming (typically up to age 8 for permanent teeth). A 15-year-old's permanent teeth are already fully formed.
• Option D is FALSE: Fluorosis is irreversible once it occurs. Management is cosmetic only (microabrasion, veneers, bleaching).