Fluoride gets a lot of attention, and parents hear mixed messages. It's natural to have questions about anything you put in your child's mouth. Here we focus on what matters most for your child's teeth: fluoride toothpaste and the fluoride treatments we use in the office.
What fluoride does
Fluoride is a natural mineral. On the teeth, it does three useful things:
It strengthens enamel, making teeth more resistant to the acids that cause cavities.
It helps repair very early decay, before it becomes a cavity.
It slows down the bacteria that cause tooth decay.
Most of fluoride's benefit for cavities comes from contact with the teeth, which is why toothpaste and varnish matter so much.
Myth: "Fluoride isn't safe for kids at all."
Fact: Used in the right amount, topical fluoride is one of the best-studied ways to prevent cavities. Major pediatric and dental organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommend fluoride toothpaste for children from their first tooth.
The key is the right amount. That's why the guidelines for young children call for very small amounts of toothpaste.
Myth: "My child is too young for fluoride toothpaste."
Fact: Current guidance is to use fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears. Just use a tiny amount:
Under age 3: a smear about the size of a grain of rice
Ages 3 to 6: a pea-sized amount
Help with brushing until your child can do it well alone, usually around age 7 or 8
Teach them to spit, not swallow, as soon as they're able
Myth: "More toothpaste means more protection."
Fact: More isn't better. A rice-grain or pea-sized amount gives the full benefit. Using too much, and swallowing it regularly while permanent teeth are forming (up to about age 8), can cause dental fluorosis.
Myth: "Fluorosis damages teeth."
Fact: Most fluorosis is mild: faint white specks or lines on the teeth. It's cosmetic, it doesn't hurt, and it doesn't weaken the teeth. Using the recommended amount of toothpaste and supervising brushing makes it unlikely.
Myth: "Fluoride varnish at the dentist is a strong chemical treatment."
Fact: Fluoride varnish is painted on in seconds in a very small amount. It sticks to the teeth, sets quickly, and releases fluoride slowly onto the enamel. Very little is swallowed. Kids often like the flavors.
Many children benefit from varnish every three to six months, depending on their risk of cavities. We'll recommend a schedule that fits your child, and you can always ask us to explain why.
Myth: "If we brush well, we don't need fluoride."
Fact: Brushing removes plaque, which is essential, but fluoride does something brushing can't: it strengthens the enamel itself. The two work best together, along with flossing and a low-sugar diet.
Myth: "Natural or fluoride-free toothpaste works just as well."
Fact: Without fluoride, toothpaste mainly helps you brush away plaque. It doesn't give the same protection against cavities. If you prefer a fluoride-free product, tell us. We'll talk through your child's risk of cavities and other ways to protect their teeth.
What about fluoride in water or supplements?
Fluoride in drinking water, and fluoride supplements, are separate topics, with policies that vary by community and continue to be discussed nationally. The fluoride level in your home's water depends on whether you're on public water or a private well.
Please don't start or stop fluoride supplements on your own. Ask us, or your pediatrician, and we'll look at your child's water source, age and cavity risk to give you advice that fits your family.
Have questions? Ask us
You should never feel rushed or brushed off when asking about fluoride. At your child's next visit, we're happy to talk it through. Request an appointment at our Middletown or West Dover office, or read about our preventive care.