If you know anything about dentistry, you’re probably aware that fluoride is important to the teeth. It’s a vital mineral for oral health, and people of all ages need a certain amount of it in order to keep their teeth in good condition.
Children in particular often benefit from fluoride treatments, which can be performed by any pediatric dentist. However, if you’re a parent, you might wonder at what age it would be appropriate to start taking your child in for fluoride treatment. Here’s what you should know.
Is Fluoride Safe for Kids?
The answer is yes, fluoride is perfectly safe for children. Whether in drinking water, toothpaste, or administered by dentist, there are no negative health effects that result from the use of fluoride to strengthen the teeth.
Of course, it is possible to use too much fluoride, and very young people are at a slightly higher risk of this issue. For that reason, it’s a good idea to be smart about how much fluoride toothpaste you use for children, and watch them to make sure they don’t swallow it habitually.
What Happens if People Get Too Much Fluoride?
An excess of fluoride is known as fluorosis. Typically, this condition if fairly mild, resulting in some small white spots on the teeth. In more advanced cases, however, it could potentially make the teeth a bit more brittle.
In mild cases, fluorosis is usually only detectible by a dentist. If you find that you or your child’s teeth has small white spots that don’t come off with brushing, it may be worth checking that they aren’t dealing with this problem.
When are Fluoride Treatments Necessary?
In some situations, your child’s pediatric dentist may recommend fluoride treatment. This involves layering a fluoride solution directly onto the teeth, which serves to fortify the enamel against potential decay.
The fluoride solution will be perfectly tuned to your child’s teeth, meaning virtually no risk of fluorosis. The procedure is a fast, easy, and painless method of ensuring that your child’s teeth are in the best condition they can be.
About the Author
Dr. Veronica Martinez believes that the best dentistry involves at least two smiles: hers and her patient’s. She brings a level of passion and dedication to her work that her patients notice, and that can make even the most anxious child excited about the prospect of improving their teeth. Dr. Martinez received her dental degree from the Marquette University School of Dentistry and specialized in pediatric dentistry at the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin.
If you have any questions about fluoride treatment for children, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (480) 282-6746.
