Is Your Child Getting Enough Fluoride? We’ll Let You Know.
During each appointment, one of our pediatric dentists here at Dr. Kwon Pediatric Dentistry will check to see if your child needs fluoride treatments during their routine cleaning. We’re always focused on keeping your child’s teeth healthy and strong, which is exactly what fluoride does for your kid’s smile.
What Is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a natural element and is found in drinking water. Using small amounts of fluoride on a routine basis can help prevent tooth decay. Fluoride can be found as an active ingredient in many dental products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, and varnish treatments.
Why Fluoride Treatment is Helpful for Children
Fluoride treatment is essential for a healthy smile. Fluoride keeps your child’s teeth and gums happy and healthy and helps prevent tooth decay and cavities. The dentist will evaluate your child’s dental health and determine the necessary frequency of fluoride application, which can be applied during routine cleanings.
Fluoride Helps Prevent Cavities in Kids
Fluoride inhibits the loss of minerals from tooth enamel and encourages the strengthening of the weakened areas of the tooth. Fluoride also affects bacteria that cause cavities, discouraging acid attacks that break down the tooth. The risk of decay is reduced even more when fluoride is combined with a healthy diet and good oral hygiene.
Topical Fluoride
Topical fluoride is a preventative agent applied to tooth enamel. Fluoride varnish is brushed or “painted” on the tooth enamel by your dentist or dental professional. Your child will be able to eat or drink after the varnish treatment is applied, although they should avoid crunchy food and hot beverages for a short time. Brushing and flossing should be avoided for four to six hours after the fluoride treatment to achieve the maximum benefit.
Fluoride Treatment FAQs
What are the Benefits of Fluoride?
When applied to your teeth, fluoride works to fight off tooth decay and keep your teeth strong. It helps eliminate bacteria in the mouth that causes tooth decay and keep cavities from forming on the surfaces of your teeth. No cavities mean no dental fillings and happier smiles!
Is Fluoride Safe for My Child?
Using fluoride for the prevention and control of decay is proven to be both safe and effective. It is a great benefit in keeping teeth healthy. Fluoride is only dangerous when used in extreme and excessive amounts. Many kinds of toothpaste contain a safe amount for your child to use twice daily while brushing their teeth. Nevertheless, all products containing fluoride should be stored out of the reach of young children and only used with adult supervision.
How is Fluoride Applied?
Your pediatric dentist will apply a fluoride gel, foam, or varnish directly to your child’s teeth after a routine cleaning.
What are the Possible Side Effects of Fluoride?
While fluoride is safe to use as directed, there are side effects, known as fluorosis, when fluoride is used in excess. Fluorosis is when teeth have been exposed to excessive fluoride, resulting in white specks or streaks on the teeth. This more commonly occurs when children’s teeth are still forming and is typically associated with naturally occurring forms of fluoride such as well water. Talk to your child’s dentist if you have questions or schedule an appointment at one of our four northeast Atlanta-area locations today!