Fluorosis is the permanent discoloration of a tooth. Normally our first adult teeth erupt about 6 years of age. But these teeth start their formation about 1 year of age. If an infant is given too much fluoride during the first 12 months of life, this milky white or brown staining of the adult teeth can occur.

Parents need to minimize the mixing of formula concentrate with fluoridated water. They may elect, instead, to use bottled water or water known to be low in fluoride. Nearly all fluorosis cases found in a recent study were mild.

The American Dental Association and the American Association of Pediatric Dentists recommend that children aged 12 months or less should not consume fluoridated water.