Fine and busy

 

What is Fluoride?

Fluoride is derived from fluorine and exists naturally in water

sources. It is the thirteenth most common element in the Earth’s crust.

Fluoride helps prevent and even reverse the early stages of tooth

decay. It strengthens tooth enamel, the outer layer of our teeth, so it

can better resist the acid formed by plaque. Fluoride also allows teeth

damaged by acid to remineralize (repair themselves). Fluoride is

especially critical to the health of developing teeth in children.

Why is Fluoride Controversial?

The addition of fluoride to the water supply is dangerous and damaging

and some advocacy groups publish reports on the hazards of

fluoridation. They point to toxicity warnings on toothpaste, concluding

that any substance needing such careful dosage must be dangerous.

In response to these claims, the National Institutes of Health (NIH)

reviewed research on dental cavities prevention and public policy. The

NIH agreed with anti-fluoride activists that many studies in this area

are of poor quality, however, the NIH panel concluded that the

unevenness of research does not invalidate the clear benefits of

fluoride. The NIH stated that the dramatic reductions in tooth decay in

the past 30 years are due to fluoridation of the water supply, and

parents and health professionals should continue to ensure that

children receive enough fluoride to prevent cavities.

How Much Fluoride Does My Child Need?

Those living in a non-fluoridated area should consult your dentist

about the potential need for fluoride drops, tablets, or vitamins after

your baby is 6 months old. The American Dental Association recommends

that children begin using toothpaste with fluoride around the age of

two or three. Prior to this, parents should clean their child’s teeth

with water, or with fluoride-free baby toothpaste, and a soft bristled

toothbrush.

Children should use only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and spit out

as much as possible after brushing. Even a small amount of toothpaste

supplies enough fluoride to protect teeth but minimizes the chances of

side effects from too much fluoride.

What About Mouth Rinses Containing Fluoride?

Only mouth rinses clearly labeled "anticavity with fluoride" contain

fluoride. These are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration

(FDA) and are approved by the ADA. Mouth rinses should be used by

children ages 6 and older since those under 6 haven’t fully developed

their spitting abilities.

Ask your family dentist or pediatric dentist for information about your

child’s dental care and fluoride needs. A dentist can help you

understand more about how fluoride affects the teeth.