As a parent, ensuring your child’s dental health is one of about a hundred top priorities. It can be difficult to find time to get to them all, which is why preventive care is so important! Among the many ways you can protect your little one’s pearly whites, fluoride treatments are one of the simplest. However, many still aren’t sure of fluoride and its safety for kids.
If you want to learn more about fluoride and how it can safeguard your child’s smile, continue reading.
So, What Is Fluoride Anyway?
Fluoride is a natural mineral that can be found in many places like tap water, toothpaste, and foods like grapes. It’s most known for its ability to strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid made by bacterial plaque. This protective effect is important, especially in children whose teeth are still developing.
How Does It Benefit Children?
The defensive properties of fluoride have been used for decades to prevent tooth decay in tiny tykes. Research has shown that children who receive a balanced dosage of the mineral have far fewer cavities and enjoy better overall dental health.
So, Is Fluoride Safe for Kids?
Despite its proven benefits, there is some misinformation and confusion on the web that has caused some to distrust fluoride. Many patients confuse fluoride for its more toxic cousin, fluorine.
In other cases, there may be some questions about the possibility of dental fluorosis. This is a condition that can cause white or brown discoloration in tooth enamel. However, this condition is mostly a cosmetic issue and only happens at levels much higher than recommended.
So, is fluoride okay for kids? Absolutely! As long as they are receiving a balanced dosage through toothpaste, drinking water, and professional treatments, it’s perfectly safe. It has a proven record of helping children safeguard their dental health and very few reports of any negative side effects. By understanding the benefits of fluoride and the concerns others have, parents can make informed decisions and help their children achieve happy, healthy smiles.
About The Practice
Whether your child needs a fluoride treatment, a filling, or a checkup, Dr. Cory and Dr. Nicole at G&G Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics are on the case! They’re passionate pediatric dentists who truly love what they do—help young smiles stay healthy and bright. Call (630) 778-9500 to schedule an appointment for your child or visit the website to delve into the full menu of services they provide for tiny teeth.
