Fluoride is one of the best defenses against tooth decay! Dental sealants and fluoride together can prevent almost all tooth decay!
Using fluoride toothpaste and drinking fluoridated water is usually the best source for your child receiving its benefits.
Water is fluoridated in about two-thirds of cities and towns in the United States. If your water is not fluoridated or if your children's teeth need more fluoride to maintain health teeth, our pediatric dentists can advise you on this, and prescribe it, if necessary, in the form of a gel, mouth rinse, or tablet.
Children, between the ages of six months and 16 years, may require these fluoride supplements. Our pediatric dentists at Children's Dental Health Associates, P.C., will consider many different factors before recommending a fluoride supplement. Your child's age, risk of developing dental decay, and the different liquids your child drinks are important considerations. Bottled, filtered and well waters vary in their fluoride amount, so a water analysis may sometimes be necessary to ensure your child is receiving the proper amount.
Fluoride helps the smooth surfaces of the teeth the most. It is less effective on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where dental sealants would be the best preventive measure.
How safe is Fluoride?
Fluoride is documented to be safe and highly effective. Research indicates water fluoridation, the most cost effective method, has decreased the decay rate by over 50 percent. Only small amounts of fluoride are necessary for the maximum benefit. Proper toothpaste amount must be supervised, and other forms of fluoride supplementations must be carefully monitored in order to prevent a potential overdose and unsightly spots on the developing permanent teeth. Do not leave toothpaste tubes where young children can reach them. The flavors that help encourage them to brush may also encourage them to eat toothpaste.
Fluoride...
- makes teeth more resistant to decay
- repairs tiny areas of decay before they become big cavities
- makes germs in the mouth less able to cause decay
