Regular brushing and flossing aren’t the only things that keep your children’s smiles glowing. We can bet that you’ve heard dentists talking about fluoride. We talk a lot about it because it plays a critical role when it comes to healthy tooth development and cavity prevention.
As you already know by now, plaque causes tooth decay when bacteria turns food into acid, which dissolves the enamel of teeth. Fluoride prevents this acid from destroying precious protective enamel. Although it does not repair cavities, it prevents new ones from forming.
Fluoride works its magic in two ways. First, when it is ingested, it gets incorporated into the structure of developing teeth. Second, it protects teeth when it comes in contact with the tooth’s surface.
Our water supply is one of the major sources of fluoride. Thanks to the fluoridation of water, tooth decay has been reduced by almost 40%. Fluoridation is a safe and cost-effective way to reduce dental decay. The CDC even states that the fluoridation of water is one of the 10 greatest public health achievements of the 20th century!
Remember these tips for its safe use with kids:
- Kids younger than 2 shouldn’t use fluoride toothpaste unless directed by a doctor.
- Kids over age 2 should use fluoride-containing toothpaste that is approved by the ADA.
- Kids should not use more than a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
- Kids younger than 6 should be supervised when brushing to make sure they don’t swallow too much toothpaste.
- Fluoride-containing mouth rinses should not be used by kids under 6 but may be beneficial to older kids.
- Keep all fluoride-containing products out of the kid’s reach.
Don’t hesitate to ask Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Chattanooga if you have any questions concerning your water’s fluoride content, the fluoridated products your child uses, or whether your child is receiving too much or too little! We are here to help!
