A fluoride level above 2.0 mg/l in drinking water may cause what condition?

Fluoride is commonly added to drinking water to help in the prevention of dental cavities; however, excessive levels can lead to undesirable effects, particularly on dental health. A fluoride concentration above 2.0 mg/l can result in mottling of permanent teeth, also known as dental fluorosis. This condition occurs during the development of teeth, when excessive fluoride is ingested. It manifests as white spots, streaks, or brown discoloration on the enamel.

In contrast, other dental issues such as yellowing of teeth, tooth extraction, or dental cavities are not directly caused by elevated fluoride levels. Yellowing of teeth is often more related to factors such as dietary habits or external stain sources rather than fluoride toxicity. Tooth extraction and dental cavities can arise from a variety of dental issues, but they are not specific consequences of high fluoride levels. Therefore, understanding the potential effects of fluoride concentration is crucial for maintaining dental health, particularly for children whose teeth are still developing.