Are you concerned that your child’s teeth may be at risk for cavities and tooth decay? You’re not alone. Many parents worry that adequate brushing and six-month checkups and cleanings may not be enough to protect their children’s smiles. The truth is that one key element can work to protect their pearly whites as they grow – fluoride. Read on to find out when children should start using fluoride to safeguard their smiles.
What is Fluoride?
As a natural mineral, fluoride is found in the body, as well as in different foods, tap water, and toothpaste.
Capable of protecting against tooth decay and cavities, it is also known to help strengthen tooth enamel and form new bone. This is one of the many reasons dentists often turn to fluoride to help with young, growing smiles as well as those that are more mature and need additional help.
Why Is It Beneficial for Teeth?
Children’s teeth can be highly susceptible to cavities for many reasons:
- Poor oral hygiene – Many are still learning how to properly brush and floss their teeth daily.
- Sugary snacks – Kids often consume copious amounts of sugar and starch, both of which can lead to cavities and gingivitis.
- Consumption of fruit juices – Instead of drinking water, children are often handed fruit juices or soda that contain not only sugar but also highly acidic contents that can eat away at tooth enamel.
To minimize the potential damage caused by novice oral hygiene skills and unhealthy eating and drinking habits, fluoride can work to combat the potential for cavities. It will also help their teeth to remain strong so that tooth decay has a harder time forming.
When Is It Safe for Kids to Start Receiving Fluoride?
Many dental professionals are staunchly against the use of fluoride because of the potential of fluorosis, which is a condition that can occur by ingesting too much at an early age. It often causes white spots to form on teeth.
However, other professionals and researchers state that when receiving an appropriate dose of fluoride, it can be completely safe for your children. This is why it’s recommended that fluoride toothpaste be used as soon as the first tooth erupts.
Using only a smear (the size of a grain of rice) will help to protect these primary teeth from encountering cavities as they continue to develop. When combined with drinking tap water, eating various fruits and vegetables, and continuing to see a pediatric dentist for regular checkups and cleanings, there is a good chance that your child’s smile will remain on a cavity-free path.
Of course, there is the option for your little one to receive fluoride treatments during their regular appointment times.
No matter how you approach the use of fluoride, the important thing to remember is to use it according to the amount recommended by your child’s pediatric dentist.
About the Practice
At The Dental Specialists Pediatric Dentistry, we’re proud to have a team of three experienced pediatric dentists: Dr. Lucely Santillan, Dr. Adam Preece, and Dr. Alexander Shau. Thanks to their years of advanced training, they’re able to provide specialized treatments that are designed to meet the unique oral healthcare needs of kids. They can help diagnose bruxism in your child and will work with you to discover solutions for helping your little one stop grinding their teeth. To learn more or schedule your next appointment, they can be reached online or at (972) 364-7472.