DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS OF DENTAL FLUOROSIS AND OTHER DEVELOPMENTAL ENAMEL DEFECTS: A CLINICAL AND MORPHOLOGICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

Differential diagnosis of dental fluorosis remains a complex clinical challenge due to its similarity to other developmental and acquired enamel defects. The aim of this study was to perform a comprehensive comparative analysis of dental fluorosis and related enamel pathologies based on clinical, morphological, and etiological criteria. A narrative analytical review of contemporary literature was conducted. The results demonstrate that fluorosis can be reliably distinguished by its symmetrical distribution, dose-dependent severity, and specific enamel porosity patterns. However, overlap with early caries lesions, enamel hypoplasia, and genetic disorders complicates diagnosis. The integration of clinical indices, patient history, and morphological features significantly improves diagnostic accuracy.