Fluoride
What is fluoride?
Fluoride remains a natural cavity fighter. Fluoride remains a mineral that prevents cavities and decay in people’s teeth. It acts by providing a systemic benefit through the body and into the enamel of your child’s tooth. The substance is also applied directly to the teeth.
Why does your child need fluoride on his or her teeth?
Fluoride works by making the enamel of a person’s teeth resistant to acid in the mouth that can cause tooth decay.
How does my child acquire enough fluoride for their teeth?
Some public water supplies in various cities also add the mineral to their water to bring it up to acceptable levels to assist in preventing tooth decay. Fluoride has been added to public water supplies for the last 70 years. Approximately 75 percent of the cities in the United States provide fluoridated water to their citizens.
How can I ensure my child gets enough fluoride to prevent tooth decay?
Drinking fluoridated water remains one way to ensure your child receives the fluoride they need to keep their teeth healthy. Other methods of your child acquiring fluoride include:
- Providing the child with fluoride toothpaste and making sure they brush their teeth twice a day.
- Brush the boy or girl’s teeth as soon as they come into the mouth. Use only a rice-sized amount of toothpaste on the child’s brush.
- Apply a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for a child of three to six years old.
- Ensuring that the child spits out most of the toothpaste in their mouth when they are done brushing, so it doesn’t get swallowed.
- Having your child rinse their teeth with fluoride if their dentist recommends it if they are six years old or older.
- Have your dentist apply fluoride directly to the child’s teeth if they support it.
Dr. Mina remains a specialist in pediatric dentistry. She knows how to treat a child’s teeth appropriately and protect them with fluoride. Please schedule an appointment at Dr. Mina’s child-friendly office today to find out more about using fluoride on your child’s teeth.
