Importance of Fluoride for Oral Health
 Fluoride treatment is one of the most important services we offer here at Aurora Children’s Dentistry. Despite common misconceptions, introducing fluoride to your child’s oral health is one of the best ways to ensure a lifetime of healthy, beautiful teeth. It is the reason most toothpaste contains fluoride. It is the reason that almost every dental office offers a professional fluoride treatment, including ours.
How Fluoride Protects Your Child’s Teeth
Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral found in water and certain foods. There are two types of fluoride treatment: topical and systemic. Topical fluorides are applied directly to the surfaces of the tooth, while systemic fluoride comes in the form of an oral supplement that strengthens the teeth from within.
Every day, our teeth lose and gain minerals through the process of demineralization and remineralization. Demineralization occurs when the bacteria in our mouth feed off the sugars and other simple carbohydrates we consume. As these bacteria feed, they produce acids that attack the enamel. Remineralization occurs when we consume foods and beverages that deposit crucial minerals back into the enamel.
If the process of demineralization exceeds remineralization tooth decay will occur. Fluoride treatment, whether it is topical or systemic, supplements the process of remineralization. In other words, fluoride prevents and even reverses minor instances of decay.
Professional Fluoride Treatment
Professional fluoride treatment may be a regular part of your child’s appointments with us. These appointments typically include a comprehensive exam, professional cleaning, and fluoride treatment. We may also recommend additional preventive measures such as dental sealants if your child is at particularly high risk for tooth decay.
The actual fluoride procedure only takes a few minutes. Topical fluoride comes in several forms, including gels, varnish, foam, and rinses. Since we are a pediatric office, our topical fluorides come in kid-friendly flavors to make the experience more enjoyable.
If the fluoride comes in a varnish form, we typically use a cotton swab or brush to paint the substance onto the enamel. If we use a fluoride foam or gel, we utilize a tray that is held in the mouth for a few minutes. Once the treatment is complete, we will remove the tray and rinse out any remaining fluoride debris.
For the next 30 minutes to an hour, be sure your child does not eat or drink anything. The fluoride needs time to absorb into the enamel and reverse minor instances of decay.
Does Your Child Need Fluoride Treatment?
During your child’s routine appointment, our doctor will assess their risk of tooth decay. If they are at a higher risk, we may recommend more frequent fluoride treatments. Depending on the status of your child’s oral health, we may recommend fluoride treatment every three, six, or 12 months.
Some of these risk factors include:
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Poor brushing and flossing techniques
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Poor diet high in sugars and starches
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Infrequent appointments with a pedodontist
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Active dental caries (tooth decay)
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Elevated levels of bacteria in the mouth
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Existing fillings or other restorations
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Low levels of saliva
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Tooth enamel defects
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Misalignments, such as crowded or rotated teeth |
Schedule Your Child’s Appointment
Treating cavities is important, but preventing them is ideal. Call (907) 336-1234 to schedule your child’s appointment today!
FAQs
Why is fluoride important for children’s oral health?
Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and makes teeth more resistant to cavities. At Aurora Children’s Dentistry, our dental team may recommend fluoride as part of a child’s preventive care plan to support healthy teeth as they grow and develop.
How does fluoride help prevent cavities?
Fluoride helps protect teeth by supporting remineralization, which can repair early enamel weakening before a cavity forms. It also helps make enamel stronger against acids produced by bacteria and sugary foods or drinks.
When should children use fluoride toothpaste?
Children can use fluoride toothpaste as soon as teeth begin to appear, with the amount based on the child’s age and ability to spit. Our dentists can show parents how much toothpaste to use and how to supervise brushing safely at home.
Does my child need professional fluoride treatments?
Some children may benefit from professional fluoride treatments, especially if they have a higher risk of cavities, deep grooves in the teeth, dry mouth, braces, or a history of tooth decay. Our dental team will evaluate your child’s oral health and recommend fluoride treatment when it can provide added protection.
How can parents help children get the right amount of fluoride?
Parents can help by using the recommended amount of fluoride toothpaste, encouraging regular brushing, limiting sugary snacks and drinks, and bringing children to Aurora Children’s Dentistry for routine dental visits. Our dental team can also review your child’s fluoride exposure and recommend the best preventive steps for their needs. |
