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Fluoride
Common Questions & Answers
Q:
How does fluoride work?
A: When the element fluoride is used in small amounts
on a routine basis it helps to prevent tooth decay. It
encourages “remineralization,” a strengthening of weak
areas on the teeth. These spots are the beginning of
cavity formation. Fluoride occurs naturally in water
and in many different foods, as well as in dental
products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, gels, varnish
and supplements. Fluoride is effective when combined
with a healthy diet and good oral hygiene.
Q:
Will my child need fluoride
supplements?
A: Children between the ages of 6 months and 16 years
may require fluoride supplements. Our dentists consider
many different factors before recommending a fluoride
supplement. Your child’s age, risk of developing dental
decay and the different liquids are important
considerations. Bottled, filtered and well waters vary
in their fluoride amount, so a water analysis may be
necessary to ensure your child is receiving the proper
amount.
Q:
What type of toothpaste should my
child use?
A: Your
child should use toothpaste with fluoride and the
American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance.
Young children, especially pre-school aged children,
should not swallow any toothpaste. Careful supervision
and only a small pea-sized amount on the brush are
recommended. If not monitored, children may easily
swallow over 4 times the recommended daily amount of
fluoride in toothpaste.
Q:
How safe is fluoride?
A: Fluoride is documented to be safe and highly
effective. Research indicates water fluoridation, the
most cost-effective method, has decreased the decay rate
by over 50%. Only small amounts of fluoride are
necessary for the maximum benefit. Proper toothpaste
amount must be supervised, and other forms of fluoride
supplementation must be carefully monitored in order to
prevent a potential overdose and unsightly spots on the
developing permanent teeth. Do not leave toothpaste
tubes where young children can reach them. The flavors
that help encourage them to brush may also encourage
them to eat the toothpaste.
Q:
What is topical fluoride?
A: Topical fluoride comes in a number of different
forms. Gels and foams are placed in fluoride trays and
applied at the dental office after your child’s teeth
have been thoroughly cleaned. Fluoride varnish is one
of the newer forms of topical fluoride applied at our
office. It has been documented to be safe and effective
to fight dental decay through a long history of use in
Europe.
The advantages of varnish are:
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Easily and
quickly applied to the teeth
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Decreases the potential amount of fluoride digested
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Continues to “soak” fluoride into the enamel for
approximately 24 hours after the original
application
This
method is especially useful in young patients and those
with special needs that may hot tolerate fluoride trays
comfortably.
Children
who benefit the most from fluoride are those at highest
risk for dental decay. Risk factors include a history
of decay, high sucrose carbohydrate diet, orthodontic
appliances and certain medical conditions such as dry
mouth.
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