Fluoride 101: All You Need to Know About It
When trying to prevent tooth decay in children, it is essential to know the benefits of using fluoride in your child’s oral health regimen. You may have never heard of kids’ fluoride treatments, or maybe you aren’t exactly sure of what they are. Well, here’s what you need to know about fluoride.
What does Fluoride do to prevent tooth decay in children?
Fluoride prevents tooth decay by being applied directly onto the tooth’s enamel, and by being digested naturally through foods that contain it.” Topical fluorides strengthen teeth already present in the mouth (posteruptively). In this method of delivery, fluoride is incorporated into the surface of teeth making them more decay-resistant. Topically applied fluoride provides local protection on the tooth surface,” says the American Dental Association. Research on fluoride shows that in order to effectively prevent tooth decay, fluoride must be applied throughout the process of a tooth’s development. In other words, oral hygiene habits must be consistent, from the time a child cuts their first tooth as a baby, through adolescence, and onto adulthood.
What are Kids’ fluoride Treatments?
Kids’ fluoride treatments consist of a fluoride product that is applied by a dental professional and left on the teeth for an extended period of time. A common method of topically applying fluoride to a child’s teeth is utilizing a fluoride varnish. Research shows that this is a more effective method of preventing further tooth decay in children who have already had a cavity.
What can you do to get the most out of protecting your child’s dental health with fluoride?
- Brush at least twice daily with a fluoride based toothpaste.
- Floss daily. This will help get toothpaste and mouthwash onto every surface of your child’s teeth.
- Use a fluoride mouthwash.
- Ask a pediatric dentist in Concord if a fluoride treatment is right for your child.
Fluoride treatments can prevent a lot of dental work down the road is used effectively on children’s teeth. Topical treatments at various stages of tooth development are important for remineralizing the enamel of your child’s teeth.
Does your child need a pediatric dentist in Concord? Contact our office today to schedule an appointment!