What is the health effects of excess fluoride in drinking water?

(a) Fluorosis

(b) Toothaches

(c) Lung disease

(d) Intestinal infection

(a) Fluorosis

The primary health effect of consuming excess fluoride in drinking water over a long period is a condition called fluorosis.

This condition primarily affects the teeth and bones and can manifest in two main forms:¹

• Dental Fluorosis: This occurs when children consume high levels of fluoride during the period of tooth formation.²It can range from mild cases with small, unnoticeable white spots on the teeth to severe cases with permanent brown or black staining, pitting, and mottling of the enamel.³
• Skeletal Fluorosis: This is a more serious condition affecting the bones and joints.⁴Long-term, high-level exposure to fluoride can lead to the hardening and stiffening of bones, joint pain, and in severe cases, crippling deformities and an increased risk of fractures.⁵