Fluoride is a compound, containing fluorine, that is a helpful tool in decreasing the risk of cavities and helping maintain optimal oral health. Fluoride is a naturally occurring element, commonly found in drinking water, and is effective in helping prevent tooth decay when used in small amounts. Fluoride can be found in most dental products, like toothpaste, mouthwash, and varnish treatments, which can be found over the counter.
Why Does Fluoride Treatment Help Children?
Fluoride treatment provides defense against cavities! Fluoride helps strengthen weakened areas of a tooth, fights against the bacteria that causes cavities, and protects teeth from acid that can break down the tooth’s enamel. All of these combined with a healthy diet can help lower your child’s risk of cavities and maintain great oral hygiene for life.
How Can Fluoride Help Prevent Cavities in Kids?
Fluoride can be effective in fighting tooth decay and protecting teeth from the bacteria that can cause cavities. Although fluoride does not completely take away the risk of cavities, it can help encourage great oral health. Fluoride can be especially effective for children while they’re teeth and mouths are developing. With the use of fluoride, proper brushing techniques, flossing, and a healthy diet, your child can achieve a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Topical Fluoride
Fluoride is typically applied as a topical treatment, either as a varnish or gel. Done right in the office following a routine cleaning, topical fluoride is a quick and simple application that only takes a few minutes. Fluoride varnish is painted on directly to the teeth and dries in just a couple minutes, creating the helpful protective fluoride barrier. Fluoride gel is also painted onto the tooth but is rinsed off after the application. Although it is not does not guarantee zero cavities alone, topical fluoride is helpful and a great resource for keeping your child’s growing smile bright and healthy!
Fluoride Treatment FAQs
What are the Benefits of Fluoride?
Utilizing fluoride in your dental health regimen helps lower the risk of cavities and fight off tooth decay. By using fluoridated toothpaste and mouth rinses and receiving fluoride treatment at the dentist office can result in lesser cavities, lesser fillings and tooth extractions, and an overall happier smile with less pain and discomfort from tooth decay.
Is Fluoride Safe for My Child?
The use of fluoride has been proven both safe and effective for controlling tooth decay and preventing cavities. When used safely, fluoride provides great benefits for your child’s smile. Even though fluoride products are helpful for achieving a healthy smile, all products containing fluoride should be stored out of reach of young children and parents should monitor their children’s use of fluoride products. Fluoride is only unsafe if it is used in extreme and excessive amounts.
How is Fluoride Applied?
Fluoride is applied directly to your teeth by a dentist or dental professional. Fluoride treatment is painted on the top and sides of each tooth. The application is not painful and is completed in just a few minutes during your child’s regular visit.
What are the Possible Side Effects of Fluoride?
If fluoride is used in excessive or extreme amounts, it can potentially cause dental fluorosis. Dental fluorosis is a defect in the tooth’s enamel that causes white specks or streaks to appear on the tooth’s surface. Talk to your child’s dentist to ensure they are receiving the proper amount of fluoride to keep their smile happy and healthy.
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