Keeping young smiles healthy and cavity-free requires regular six-month dental checkups and teeth cleanings, routine brushing, flossing, and rinsing at home, eating a healthy diet, and getting adequate fluoride exposure. But is fluoride safe for children? A pediatric dentist explains why this natural mineral is beneficial for the health and longevity of your little one’s smile and when it’s a good time to start incorporating it into their regular oral hygiene routine.
What Does the Research Say About Fluoride?
According to the International Association for Dental Research, a new study revealed that children who are exposed to fluoridated water in the first five years of life experienced no negative behavioral or developmental function once they reached adolescence.
Although much research has been done to dispel the notion that fluoride is safe, researchers combined their findings with a follow-up study conducted in 2012-2014 among children who were then 5-10 years of age.
As the least expensive way to receive fluoride, drinking tap water that is treated with this natural mineral helps children to better safeguard their smiles. Not to mention, water is far better than fruit juices or sports drinks.
How is Fluoride Effective?
When applied to teeth or consumed (via treated tap water), it coats the surfaces of teeth and penetrates the enamel to offer maximum protection against dental decay. Not only does it help teeth to become stronger, but it minimizes the risk of cavities, which are common among young smiles.
How Early Should My Child Receive Fluoride?
Knowing when to incorporate fluoride toothpaste, fluoridated water, and even fluoride treatments into your child’s oral hygiene is important. This is why meeting with a trusted pediatric dentist early on is crucial. Their expertise and skills will ensure that your little one’s teeth remain safe at any age.
The moment your child’s first tooth erupts, you can begin to use a smear of fluoride toothpaste to keep it clean. This means that the amount used should be no larger than a grain of rice. This helps to prevent little mouths from ingesting too much early on, as they are unlikely to be able to spit it out.
As your child grows older, you can begin to use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste once they reach the age of three. You’ll also find that your child’s dentist will also begin to recommend fluoride treatments during regular dental checkups if they believe your little one may not be getting exposed to enough of it at home.
Should a cavity form at any point, however, many dentists offer silver diamine fluoride (SDF) as a highly safe and effective treatment option. Designed to kill the bacteria and stop the spread of decay, silver and fluoride work together to further safeguard teeth until more invasive treatment (i.e., dental filling) can be provided.
Protecting your child’s teeth from an early age is essential. Don’t waste time in giving your little one the best chance for a healthier smile. Start incorporating fluoride the moment their first tooth erupts and watch as their pearly whites grow healthier year after year.
About the Authors
Dr. Justin Chan and Dr. Sage Yoo are board-certified pediatric dentists at Sprout Dentistry for Kids who enjoy helping children take better care of their smiles. When it comes to introducing little ones to new solutions like fluoride, they take the time to thoroughly explain how it works and why it’s beneficial. If you want your child to be better protected from cavities, visit our website or call (469) 301-3212 to find out how we can help.