Fluoride

Fluoride encourages a strengthening of weak areas of the teeth. When combined with a healthy diet and good oral hygiene it can be very effective in helping to prevent tooth decay.

Your child (over age 3) should use toothpaste with fluoride. All children, especially pre-school aged children, should not swallow the toothpaste. Parents should be careful to use only a small pea-sized amount on their toothbrush. If swallowed, excessive amounts of fluoride can cause damage to the developing teeth. Fluoride is safe and highly effective, but only small amounts are necessary for the maximum benefit. Do not leave toothpaste where young children can reach it. Sometimes the flavors that help encourage them to brush may also encourage them to eat the toothpaste.

At our office, your child will be given a fluoride treatment during their teeth cleaning. A topical fluoride foam is placed on a fluoride tray and applied to your child’s teeth after a thorough cleaning. Your child will be told he is getting "teeth vitamins" to make them very strong. For the very young or those with special needs, we will brush the fluoride on with their new toothbrush.

Children who benefit the most from fluoride are those at a high risk of developing dental decay.