Fluoride Treatment
Even when children brush and floss daily, there still may be opportunities for decay to set in. There is an additional step that you can take to help their teeth stay strong and healthy. Fluoride is a mineral that can help prevent decay in your child's teeth and there are two ways that you can use fluoride to help!
Two Types of Fluoride
- The first type of fluoride is systemic fluoride. This is fluoride that we ingest into our bodies from various sources, most often fluoride that is present in public water supplies. Just like other minerals that we have in our body, the presence of fluoride helps teeth as they're forming, it strengthens the enamel on our teeth, and makes our teeth more resistant to cavities.
- The second type of fluoride is topical fluoride. Using a rinse or by having a professional application while at the dentist, fluoride is added to the surface of teeth and is an important supplement in your oral health care.
How can I use fluoride?
There are a few ways you can use fluoride to help strengthen your children's teeth. First, make sure that the products (e.g. toothpaste) you are choosing contain fluoride. Secondly, you can select a fluoride mouth wash to supplement your oral health routine. Finally, your dentist will use fluoride during your regular visits.
If you have any questions about fluoride, you can always contact our office. We would be happy to answer the questions you might have.