What is a potential consequence of accidentally over feeding fluoride?

Mottling, also known as dental fluorosis, occurs when there is an excessive intake of fluoride during the years when teeth are developing, particularly between ages 1 and 4. This condition manifests as white spots or streaks on the teeth and, in more severe cases, can lead to brown discoloration and pitting of the enamel.

Fluoride plays a crucial role in strengthening teeth and preventing decay at appropriate levels, but when it is overfed, particularly to young children, it disrupts the normal development of enamel. This is why the correct answer points to mottling as a potential consequence of overfeeding fluoride.

The other options relate to symptoms that may be associated with fluoride ingestion but do not directly align with the primary dental issue connected with excessive fluoride levels in children. Yellowing of teeth and excessive salivation are not typical results of fluoride exposure, as these conditions generally arise from other factors. Stomach cramps are more indicative of acute fluoride toxicity rather than a chronic issue like mottling. Therefore, recognizing mottling as a direct result of overfeeding fluoride highlights the need for careful monitoring of fluoride levels in water treatment practices to prevent dental health issues.