Fluoride
For decades, fluoride has been heralded by the dental community as an important mineral that absorbs into and strengthens tooth enamel, helping prevent tooth decay. Cities across the nation also acknowledge fluoride as safe and effective in fighting cavities, so they supplement drinking water with sodium fluoride.
To find out how much fluoride is in your local water and if you should be giving your children extra fluoride supplements, talk with Dr. Stevenson or his staff. We want you to understand the importance, benefits and cautions of fluoride for your children. Here are a few additional facts about fluoride.
Fluoride Facts:
- The outer layer of enamel is strengthened by fluoride, making it resistant to the acid of decay-causing bacteria.
- Fluoride supplements for mom during pregnancy do not benefit baby's developing teeth.
- Do not use fluoride toothpaste before your child is two years old. Use just a dab of toothpaste smaller than a pea for children under five and don't allow them to swallow it.
- Remember there are many sources for fluoride including bottled water, well water, juices, soft drinks, white grape juice and fish and chicken baby food.
- Account for all the sources of ingested fluoride before requesting fluoride supplements from your child's dentist.
- Little or no fluoride weakens the teeth and can lead to cavities
- Too little or too much fluoride can be detrimental to your child's teeth.
- Fluorosis is excessive fluoride ingestion by young children that causes discoloration of teeth (usually caused by child ingesting too much fluoride toothpaste or the inappropriate use of fluoride supplements).
Call your dentist at Stevenson Pediatric today to find out more about fluoride in Utah's water and fluoride options for your children, 801-938-7870.