While your child may already be following a routine of brushing twice daily, regular flossing, and biannual dental visits, it's essential to consider if these practices are sufficient. Although crucial for dental health, incorporating fluoride supplements into their routine can offer additional protection against cavities and tooth decay.
Fluoride plays a vital role in cavity prevention by building a protective layer on teeth and inhibiting the buildup of plaque on the tooth's surface.
The two types of Fluoride- systemic and topical:
- Systemic fluoride is typically obtained through public water supplies and strengthens tooth enamel during the formation of teeth beneath the gums.
- Topica fluoride can be directly applied to the teeth in the mouth, often through toothpaste, mouthwash, or professional fluoride treatments. Professional fluoride applications, more commonly found at the dentist office,such as foams and varnishes, are particularly effective in cavity prevention.
A professional dental cleaning with a fluoride treatment provided from your dentist
Depending on your child’s oral health or your doctor’s recommendation, your child may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six, or 12 months. Our office may recommend or prescribe at-home fluoride regimens such as mouthwash, prescription toothpaste, or rinses.
A professional fluoride treatment from our office is a relatively simple procedure. Patients typically need to refrain from rinsing, eating, or drinking for only 10 minutes afterward! Depending on your child's oral health and your dentist's recommendation, fluoride treatments may be scheduled every three, six, or 12 months. For certain cases our office may deem necessary an at-home fluoride rinse or prescription toothpaste.
Choosing the right at home fluoride
When selecting an at-home fluoride product (such as toothpaste or mouthwash), ensure it bears the American Dental Association's (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products with this seal have undergone rigorous evaluation by the ADA for safety and effectiveness, providing you with peace of mind regarding their quality.
