What Is Fluoride and How Do Pediatric Dentists Use It?
Fluoride is recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) as a safe and effective way to prevent tooth decay in children and adults. The connection between fluoride and good dental health has been recognized as far back as the late 1800s.
Plaque sticks to the surface of the teeth and produces acids that contribute to the breakdown of tooth enamel. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by slowing down this deterioration and increasing the rate of remineralization.
Learn more about fluoride, how pediatric dentists use it, and why children should have some form of it every day starting at six months of age.
What Is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a mineral found naturally in bones and teeth. It is commonly used in dentistry to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities. It is also found in small amounts in many public water supplies in the U.S. and other countries, a process known as water fluoridation. Fluoride can be found in a range of over-the-counter products, including toothpaste, mouth rinses, and supplements.
Drinking fluoridated water, using products containing fluoride, and undergoing fluoride treatments at the dentist can have countless benefits for children.
- Remineralize weakened tooth enamel
- Reverse early signs of tooth decay
- Slow the growth of harmful oral bacteria
- Reduce the loss of minerals from the enamel
By brushing your teeth twice a day, you are giving fluoride an opportunity to chase away decay on a daily basis! We recommend applying fluoride topically or swished, not ingested.
How Do Pediatric Dentists Use It?
During a treatment, the dentist will apply a topical fluoride varnish to your child’s teeth. The varnish is painted on the teeth during a routine cleaning. The process takes just a few minutes and is completely painless.
Make an Appointment
At Sunshine Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we are committed to providing families with a heightened level of care and compassion. Contact us today to schedule your visit.