When it comes to protecting your teeth and your child’s growing smile, fluoride is an important asset. It helps prevent cavities, keeping your little one’s grin happy and pain-free. However, many parents wonder whether or not this mineral is safe for their kids and when they should introduce it. To help put your mind at ease, here is what to know about it and when it’s best to start it in your child’s routine.
What Does Fluoride Do?
You may be well aware of how fluoride is key to preventing cavities, but you might be wondering how it does this. It remineralizes the teeth enamel, making them more resistant to harmful plaque and fighting off the early signs of tooth decay.
For children, it helps because their baby teeth have a thinner outer layer compared to permanent teeth. The bacteria in their mouth can more easily erode their smiles, but fluoride gives the boost they need to stay strong.
Should I Be Worried About Fluoride?
Despite the benefits of this helpful mineral, it’s understandable to be worried about introducing it to your child, especially if they haven’t had it before. The good news is that in 2022, the International Association for Dental Research did a study about fluoride in drinking water and childhood development. They found that even kids who had fluoridated water throughout their entire early childhood had no negative effects on their emotional, behavioral development, and executive functioning.
Some parents are concerned about giving their child too much fluoride, which can lead to dental fluorosis. This is mostly a cosmetic issue that causes white spots on teeth, but it doesn’t have any negative health effects. You can always talk to your child’s dentist and find ways for your little one to get the right amount they need.
When Can I Start to Introduce Fluoride in My Child’s Routine?
With all that being said, you may now wonder when it is safe to introduce fluoride to your child. You can as early as their first tooth appears! Don’t use a big glob of fluoride toothpaste, but rather the size of a grain of rice. As they get older, at about age 3, you can switch to a pea-sized. Teach your child to spit instead of swallowing the toothpaste, to help avoid dental fluorosis.
Additionally, fluoride has been added to many cities’ drinking water supply, so having your little one drink plenty of water can be helpful! If yours isn’t, then talking to your child’s dentist can help ensure their growing smile stays protected and healthy.
About the Author
Dr. Sarah Esparza earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Maryland Dental School. She is proud to help families in the Virginia Beach community have strong teeth that are problem-free. Dr. Esparza tailors her dental care for each kid that walks through her door, so you can trust your child gets the care they need, especially with fluoride treatments. If you want to learn more about how this mineral can be beneficial for your family, schedule an appointment or call (757) 499-4707.