5 Facts you should know about fluoride and your child’s teeth Written By: Dr. Ankita Shah, March 2019
Fluoride is a naturally occurring compound. Routinely using small amounts of fluoride can help in remineralization and strengthening of the weak areas of the tooth which are sites for cavity formation thereby preventing tooth decay. Studies have shown that in places with community water fluoridation, decay rates have reduced by over 50 per cent and children grow up with fewer cavities. Most of the water in India lacks fluoride which makes it essential to supply fluoride via other sources.
HOW DOES FLUORIDE PREVENT CAVITIES?
Sugar containing foods form acids on breaking down. These acids attack the tooth structure and cause loss of minerals creating porosities in the tooth (a process called “demineralization”). Fluoride neutralizes these acids produced from food. Also it interacts with the tooth mineral called hydroxyapatite and forms Fluor hydroxyapatite which occupies the porosities in the tooth structure (a process called “remineralization”). This process strengthens the tooth further reducing the chance of tooth decay.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT FORMS OF PROFESSIONAL FLUORIDE TREATMENT?
An individual fluoride regimen is designed for your child depending on the dental risk he/she carries. It is elementary to use of topical fluoride applications as most drinking water in India does not contain fluoride. Professional fluoride applications like Fluoride gels and varnishes are recommended worldwide as an anticavity measure that is extremely safe and highly effective. When the use of fluoride is combined with a healthy diet and good oral hygiene, the risk for decay is reduced even further.
WHO NEEDS PROFESSIONAL FLUORIDE TREATMENT?
Both children and adults can benefit from professional fluoride treatments applied. Studies have consistently shown that not only does fluoride strengthen developing teeth, but it also reduces tooth decay in people of all ages. Research has also confirmed that children benefiting from fluoride in their early years have a lower risk of losing teeth due to decay 40 or 50 years later. While fluoride treatments are helpful for anyone, they are especially important if you are at high risk for tooth decay.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY CHILD SWALLOWS FLUORIDATED TOOTHPASTE WHILE BRUSHING?
Make sure that you are using the correct amount of fluoride toothpaste for their age. It should be a smear of toothpaste amount for children less than three years of age and a pea-size amount for children aged 3-8 twice daily.
IS FLUORIDE SAFE?
There is confirmation from clinical studies that not only is fluoride safe and highly effective, but it’s also a crucial step in preventing cavities However, products containing fluoride should be stored out of reach of young children.
Nail polish makes nails look good, fluoride varnish helps teeth free of decay. When was the last time your child got a fluoride wash???
Find a pediatric dentist soon to get a fluoride shower!
Please feel free to ask me any questions.
Keywords : remineralization, Children, child, hydroxyapatite, kids, facts, teeth, oral hygiene, fluoride, varnish, pediatric dentist, remineralisation