Fluoride is a very common ingredient that is found in toothpaste and some public water supplies. It is frequently recommended for keeping teeth healthy. But if you are a parent then you might wonder whether Fluoride is even safe for kids? Are they really necessary?
While fluoride has a lot of benefits for dental health, it is important to understand how it works, why it’s used. So let’s dive in!
What Is Fluoride and How Does It Work?
Fluoride is a natural mineral which is found in soil, water and eve some foods. It often gets added to drinking water and toothpaste as it helps prevent tooth decay.
Fluoride works by strengthening tooth enamel which is the outer protective layer of teeth. When this mineral is present, it helps to remineralize enamel. This makes it more resistant to the harmful acids from bacteria present in the mouth and sugary foods.
When children brush their teeth with fluoride toothpaste, it mixes with enamel. This ends up protecting the teeth from cavities and prevents tooth decay.
Why Fluoride Is Important for Kids
For children, Fluoride is very important because their teeth are still in the developing phase. The early years of life are considered to be a critical time for forming healthy teeth which lasts a lifetime. Fluoride helps in making the enamel more stronger and resistant to cavities.
Children who grow up in areas with the presence of fluoride water or toothpaste generally have fewer cavities as compared to children who don’t.
Fluoride helps to reduce acid buildup in the mouth from sugars present in food. This acid weakens the tooth enamel that leads to cavities over time. Fluoride helps to protect enamel by slowing down this process. This is why it is commonly used in Dental care routines for children.
Is Fluoride Safe for Children?
In general, Fluoride is considered to be safe for kids if used correctly. There are a lot of health experts, including ADa (American Dental Association) and CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) which recommend the use of fluoride to prevent tooth decay.
However, just like anything, usage of too much fluoride is harmful. It is important to use Fluoride in the right amounts, especially for young children. This is to avoid potential risks.
Understanding the Concern
There are some parents who worry about the safety of fluoride because they have heard about conditions like “Dental Fluorosis”. It is a condition which occurs when children consume a lot of fluoride while their teeth are still developing, generally under the age of 8. This causes discoloration or small white spots to appear on teeth. However, it is also to be noted that this condition does not affect the function of the teeth.
How Fluoride Protects Against Cavities?
Fluoride helps to protect against cavities in two main ways:
Remineralization
When fluoride is present, it helps to repair the weak spots present in tooth enamel by attracting minerals like phosphate and calcium to the enamel, thereby strengthening it.
Antibacterial Effects
Fluoride also makes it harder for the bacteria in the mouth to produce acid. This causes a major tooth decay. By reducing the ability of bacteria to move, Fluoride helps in lowering the risk of cavities.
Should Your Child Drink Fluoridated Water?
Whether or not your child drinks fluoridated water depends on where you live. There are many communities which add fluoride to public water supplies to help prevent tooth decay. This is considered to be safe and beneficial for most children.
If your water does not contain fluoride then you need to talk to your child’s dentist about other ways to ensure that they receive enough fluoride.
However, it is also important to note that children who are under six should avoid swallowing large amounts of fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash. It is best to use a pea-sized and small amount of toothpaste to make sure that children spit it out after brushing.
Tips for Using Fluoride Safely with Kids
Fluoride is considered to be a very important tool for protecting a child’s teeth from cavities. But, it’s important to use it safely. Here are a few simple tips to do that:
Begin with the right amount
For children under 3, using just a tiny smear of toothpaste is enough. That should be about the size of a grain of rice. For kids who are aged between 3-6, use a small pea-sized amount. This would help from swallowing too much fluoride.
Supervise brushing
Always watch your child when they brush their teeth. You need to be careful that they are not swallowing the toothpaste. While it is normal for kids to swallow toothpaste, it should be kept to a minimum.
Teach proper way of brushing
Encourage your child to brush for a whole of two minutes. This would make sure they cover all their teeth.
Use fluoride as recommended
Check with your child’s dentist about fluoride treatments. In some areas, the water already contains fluoride. So an extra fluoride won’t be necessary.
Keep fluoride out of reach
Fluoride supplements and toothpaste need to be stored away from children. This is to avoid accidental swallowing.
Common Myths About Fluoride
There are a few myths about fluoride which can cause confusion. One such myth is that fluoride is harmful to kids. The truth is, when it gets used in the right amount, fluoride is both safe and effective for prevention of cavities.
Another myth is that fluoride only works when swallowed. In reality, fluoride works by staying on the teeth. Hence, even brushing with fluoride toothpaste helps.
FAQs
Here is a list of some of the following frequently asked questions related to the topic:
At what age can my child start using fluoride toothpaste?
Children can start using fluoride toothpaste as soon as their first teeth appear – around 6 months. Make sure to use a small amount until they are old enough to spit it out.
How much fluoride is too much?
The main concern with excessive fluoride ingestion is very rare. It is best that you follow guidelines on toothpaste use and consult a dentist about the supplements you need.
Conclusion,
When it comes to Fluoride and children’s dental health, the key is proper guidance and moderation. Fluoride can be a very powerful tool for preventing tooth decay, but it is essential that children receive the right amount for their age and needs.
At Dr. Anuradha Bose Dental Clinic, we prioritize your child’s oral health with personalized care, focus on safety and expert advice. If you have any concerns about fluoride usage for your child, schedule a consultation with us today. Give your child a bright and healthy smile!