Have you ever taken your child to the dentist only to be surprised when they recommend a topical fluoride treatment? Some people believe that exposure to this naturally-occurring mineral, which is sometimes added to public water supplies or applied to strengthen enamel, can be harmful.
But thankfully, that’s not usually the case! Continue reading to learn more about fluoride, how it usually affects kids, and why you don’t typically have to be concerned about over-exposure.
What is Fluoride
Fluoride can be found in a variety of places, including in natural sources of water, soil, rocks, and plants. Although it can be harmful in excessive quantities, most people aren’t exposed to enough of this mineral to suffer potentially adverse effects.
Furthermore, in smaller doses, like what’s included in topical dental treatments, this ingredient can be incredibly beneficial. It helps remineralize the enamel, which strengthens teeth so they’re more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria in your mouth or the foods you eat. This can help prevent cavities, injuries, and other issues.
Why is Fluoride Added to Water Sources?
Fluoride was first introduced into public water sources in the United States in 1945, and has been improving the dental health of millions of families for over 80 years. Sources estimate that as of 2020, an estimated 73% of households using public water were receiving fluoridated fluids.
It’s deliberately included as a preventive measure to help prevent dental problems, such as cavities, which are contagious. The bacteria that contribute to tooth decay can be shared from person to person if they share utensils, kiss, or use someone else’s toothbrush, and become widespread within a community. Adding fluoride to drinking water helps prevent individual dental concerns as well as expanding contagion from caries.
Is Fluoride Safe for Children?
It’s natural to want to ensure that your child isn’t exposed to anything that could harm their growth and development, and plenty of parents have questions about whether fluoride is safe for still-developing smiles. Thankfully, the amount that’s put in drinking water or included in toothpaste or dental treatments is so small that it doesn’t pose a risk to your kid’s health or well-being.
In fact, an Australian study published in the Journal of Dental Research studied whether fluoride would affect kids’ development. Scientists gathered test results for 2,600+ kids to compare different behavioral, emotional, and developmental progress both before and after being exposed to public sources of water with fluoride. They discovered that exposure to this ingredient in drinking water in the first five years of life was not associated with altered functionality. They also shared that older children who were exposed throughout their childhood demonstrated equivalent functionality to kids who were never exposed.
Although fluoride can potentially be harmful in massive doses, most children and adults are unlikely to be exposed to enough of the mineral to have to worry about potential adverse effects!
About the Practice
At The Dental Specialists Pediatric Dentistry, your child benefits from a team of experts eager to help them build and maintain a happy, healthy smile. Dr. Santillan, Dr. Preece, and Dr. Shau collaborate to provide a complete menu of services, including topical fluoride treatments, using state-of-the-art technology to help kids feel calm and comfortable during their visit. If you have questions about your child’s dental health or at-home oral hygiene habits, you can contact the office on the website or call (972) 364-7472.