Why Fluoride Is Important for Growing Smiles
If you managed to get to adulthood with few or no cavities, it’s likely due to having adequate fluoride as a kid. Fluoride, a mineral that naturally occurs in groundwater and other places, helps prevent tooth decay and strengthens enamel.
When children have access to sufficient fluoride, they’re more likely to develop strong teeth. They are set on the path to lifelong oral health, avoiding many issues that cause dental pain and discomfort in adulthood. We’ll discuss how you can get fluoride, ensure your child receives adequate amounts of fluoride, and appreciate why it’s important.
Where Can I Find Fluoride?
As previously stated, fluoride can be found in drinking water. It also occurs naturally in the soil, air, and even in some animal- and plant-based food sources. Incorporating fluoride in your family’s dental hygiene is easy through fluoride-based toothpaste, mouth rinses, drinking water, and some foods like seafood, fruits, and vegetables. You can also ask your local family dental practitioner about fluoride varnishes or treatments.
Many cities and communities fluoridate their water supplies because research has shown that doing so has a positive impact on dental health, especially in children. You can ask your municipality about access to fluoridated water or check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to determine whether your area’s groundwater contains fluoride.
Why Is Fluoride Essential to My Child’s Developing Teeth?
Since we’ve talked about ways to ensure your children get plenty of fluoride, it’s worth discussing why doing so is essential to oral health from an early age. Fluoride is a natural mineral that can prevent cavities from forming and reduce their occurrence by at least 25 percent, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Fluoride also rebuilds enamel, strengthens it, and safeguards it against the acids and bacteria in food and beverages that can break down that enamel.
Children vary in their risk for cavities. Even with near-perfect brushing and flossing habits, all children could benefit from a little extra help in preventing tooth decay and maintaining strong teeth. Children between six months and 16 years of age drink plenty of fluoridated water and use toothpaste with fluoride every day.
If you don’t live in such a city or use well water, consider talking to your family dentist about ways to incorporate fluoride into your family oral care routine. They may recommend chewable fluoride supplements or fluoridated bottled water. Your dentist or hygienist can also provide a fluoride treatment at your next dental checkup.
Is Drinking Water with Fluoride Safe?
You might have heard conflicting claims about the dangers of drinking water with fluoride. We assure you that, while excessive amounts of fluoride can be harmful, your local water supply has healthy levels.
In the United States, fluoridated water has been protecting children and adults against tooth decay for over 80 years. Based on decades of research on fluoride in drinking water, the CDC, the American Dental Association, and the AAP agree that fluoridating water is an effective method for preventing cavities and is considered safe.
While your water supply is likely safe with regard to fluoride, children can consume too much of this mineral. This typically occurs when using toothpaste with higher fluoride concentrations or swallowing other fluoride products.
To prevent dental fluorosis, which is the discoloration from excessive amounts of fluoride, keep toothpaste out of your children’s reach, and continue helping them brush until they are seven or eight years old. Also, consult your dentist if you suspect dental fluorosis. Fortunately, this condition only occurs in baby teeth. It doesn’t affect adult or permanent teeth.
Introducing a Child to Fluoride Toothpaste
While children benefit from an early introduction to fluoride, incorporating it in small amounts is best, especially when they’re as young as six months old. Using a toothpaste with a small concentration of fluoride is a positive first step. You can ask your dentist or hygienist to recommend a brand designed for babies.
When your child’s first tooth emerges, start brushing with a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste. A dab the size of a grain of rice is sufficient for a baby. When your child turns three, you can use a pea-size amount. Your child shouldn’t start rinsing with mouthwash until they’re around six.
Protecting Young Smiles with Fluoride and Dental Care
A child’s first tooth is a significant milestone, and it’s a good time to start incorporating fluoride into their at-home dental hygiene. Your dental professional at Beckham Square Family Dental is happy to discuss the benefits of fluoride with you at your child’s next dental appointment. You can also rely on us for various types of dental care at our Cincinnati office, including the repair of cracked teeth and other emergency services.