Vickery Village
How Fluoride Helps Protect Your Child’s Teeth
Your child brushes their teeth twice a day, flosses regularly, and visits the dentist every six months. But did you know that rinsing with fluoride — a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay — also helps keep their teeth healthy and strong?
Fluoride is effective in preventing cavities and tooth decay by coating teeth and preventing plaque from building up and hardening on the tooth’s surface.
Fluoride comes in two varieties:
- Systemic fluoride is ingested, usually through a public water supply. While teeth are forming under the gums, the fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making it stronger and more resistant to cavities.
- Topically applied: Fluoride can be applied topically to help prevent caries (cavities) on teeth. It is delivered through toothpaste, mouthwash, and professional fluoride applications at the dental office.
Fluoride Treatment
A fluoride treatment in our office takes just a few minutes. Depending on your child’s oral health or our doctor’s recommendation, your son or daughter may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six, or 12 months. The doctor may also prescribe at-home fluoride products such as mouthwash, gels, or antibacterial rinses.
Choosing Treatment
When choosing an at-home fluoride product (such as toothpaste or mouthwash), always check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and approved by the ADA based on safety and effectiveness.
