You must have heard about fluoride from your dentist and how it is important for your teeth. Fluoride is a mineral that naturally occurs in certain foods and water and can help prevent tooth decay by protecting the enamel. While fluoride toothpaste, fluoride mouthwash, and other dental products are recommended for adults, fluoride usage for children must be monitored closely.
Fluoride toothpaste is always a concern for parents. If you seek advice from other parents, they will give you ten reasons why fluoride is bad for kids. However, taking advice from non-professionals is not only a waste of time but can lead to misinformation. Always rely on evidence-based information rather than word of mouth. Visit a dentist in Union City, GA today.
Is fluoride toothpaste safe for kids and toddlers?
Fluoride toothpaste is safe for children as long as you follow the instructions. Once your child hits the age of three, instruct them to only use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste for brushing their teeth. Demonstrate what a pea-sized amount looks like to your kid by dispensing the toothpaste yourself, and then supervise your kid while they are brushing their teeth.
It is important only to use the recommended amount for your toddlers. You want the fluoride in the toothpaste to have a good effect on your child’s teeth, not harm them with the side effects of using excess product. Excessive exposure to fluoride can result in a condition called fluorosis, which causes small white marks or dots on your child’s permanent teeth.
While fluorosis is only a cosmetic problem, it can become unsightly. Only a small amount of fluoride toothpaste is required for it to do its job. In this case, less is more.
Benefits of fluoride toothpaste for kids
- Prevents tooth decay: Fluoride strengthens the tooth enamel and prevents bacteria from damaging the tooth and causing cavities.
- Strengthens teeth: Fluoride helps in remineralization of your tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to destructive acids.
- Fights bad breath: Fluoride helps in saliva stimulation and production and helps prevent bad breath that comes from a dry mouth.
- Promotes gum health: Fluoride makes it difficult for bacteria to stick to the surface of your teeth and gums.
- Remineralizes enamel: The enamel is the most important part of your teeth, so it is important to protect it. Fluoride helps in doing that.
Thus, the key to safely using fluoride toothpaste for children is following the dosage instructions and recommendations, supervising your children when they brush, and choosing the right quality of toothpaste. Visit a dentist for the best recommendations.
