Besides cleaning your child’s teeth, fluoride is a key factor in helping to prevent wear and tear on the teeth, including massive deterioration. Fluoride is a mineral that serves to improve the overall quality of enamel, ensuring that teeth are more impervious to decay. Seeing a pediatric dentist in Palos Heights on a regular basis can help your child’s oral health stay protected and beautiful for years to come.
The protective effect of fluoride
Fluoride is a natural element that is present in very small amounts in foods, such as fish, cabbage, spinach, wheat, rice, grapes, and tea. It helps strengthen teeth and bones. We can also find it in most kinds of toothpaste and drinking water in many cities. Some studies indicate that children who drink fluoridated water from birth have 65 percent less decay. Using toothpaste and mouthwash equipped with fluoride is very effective. However, you should always consult your child’s dentist before starting any new oral regimen.
How to give children fluoride
Fluoride can be ingested through water, salt, toothpaste, tablets or a fluoride solution. Furthermore, some brands of mineral water can contain a large amount of fluoride, especially bicarbonate. Besides water, there are no salt brands on the market that will contribute more fluorine and iodine. Fluoride tablets are also consumed mainly by younger children who still do not chew. Children also use fluoride through toothpaste and mouthwashes. The recommended daily amounts of fluoride should not exceed three mg/day.
Tips to protect teeth
Tooth development begins in the first month of pregnancy. It is very important that the mother include the necessary amounts of fluoride in her diet, in addition to other vitamins and minerals. To ensure that your child’s teeth are properly fluorinated, it is recommended that you follow a few tips:
* Choose a fluoride toothpaste and teach your child to brush their teeth at least three times a day.
* After brushing, make sure your child rinses their mouth properly (from age 6) with fluoride liquids.
* Take your child to the dentist at least twice a year.
* Make sure your child brushes their teeth after consumption of sweets and other foods that are high in sugar.
To learn more about fluoride, or any other pediatric issues, contact The Chicago kiDDS Pediatric Dentistry in Palos Heights and schedule a consult.
