If you take the time to read through the ingredients in oral hygiene products (like toothpaste and mouthwash), you’ll quickly realize a common ingredient: fluoride. When it was initially discovered, dentists were perplexed since it simultaneously stained teeth and made them considerably less vulnerable to decay. After decades of research, they discovered that with the right amount it can strengthen teeth without the discoloration. To learn more about fluoride and how it impacts your child’s oral health, keep reading!
What Is Fluoride, Exactly?
As mentioned above, fluoride is a mineral. Made up of hydroxylapatite, phosphorus, hydrogen, and oxygen, it binds the tooth enamel to prevent decay. While research is still underway on exactly how it works, studies have shown that it works best topically, which is why it’s added to toothpaste and mouthwash. Biannual checkups and cleanings often end with a fluoride treatment as well for added protection from cavities.
How Will I Know If My Child Needs a Fluoride Treatment?
The best thing to do is talk directly with your child’s dentist. Since each kid has unique dental needs (plus different diets and lifestyle factors to consider), there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. If your child is prone to cavities, then their dentist may recommend a specific toothpaste as well as fluoride treatments at the end of their six-month cleaning. If your child’s teeth are generally very healthy and strong, then a solid at-home oral hygiene routine may be all that’s needed!
5 Additional Ways to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Decay-Free
Biannual cleanings and regular fluoride treatments are two important measures you can take to help keep your child’s teeth happy and healthy. A few additional best practices include:
- Brushing for a full two minutes twice a day
- Flossing daily
- Keeping their consumption of sugary foods and beverages to a minimum
- Discouraging unhealthy dental habits, like thumb-sucking and nail-biting
- Filling their meals with nutrient-dense, vitamin-rich foods
With roughly 90% of Americans experiencing tooth decay by their 21st birthday, it’s important to do your part to help protect your child’s smile from cavities. Fortunately, routine fluoride treatments can help!
About the Practice
With a pediatric dentist and an orthodontist leading our team, you can turn to Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics for all of your child’s dental needs! We’re proud to offer routine checkups, dental sealants, and fluoride treatments all in one convenient location. Plus, if your child does develop a cavity or two, we offer lifelike restorative treatments (like tooth-colored fillings) to ensure their smile and bite are completely restored. If you’d like to learn more about fluoride and how it impacts your child’s oral health, then don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our team via our website or by phone at (603) 880-5002.