What physical characteristic does fluorosis create in dental enamel?

Fluorosis is a condition that affects the appearance of dental enamel due to excessive fluoride exposure during the development of teeth. The primary characteristic it creates is a brownish discoloration in the enamel. This discoloration can range from white spots to more severe staining that appears brown or even dark brown, depending on the severity of the fluorosis.

The brownish discoloration occurs because fluoride interferes with the normal development of enamel, leading to changes in the structure and appearance of the teeth. When enamel is mineralized properly, it has a smooth, white appearance. In contrast, fluorosis disrupts this process, leading to the aesthetic changes that are visually characteristic of the condition.

While other options reference different attributes of dental enamel, they do not correctly describe the impact of fluorosis. Increased hardness, enhanced glossiness, and cracking or chipping are not direct results of fluorosis but rather relate to other dental conditions or characteristics. Understanding these distinctions helps in identifying the effects of fluoride on dental health effectively.