Fluoride & Your Child’s Dental Heath

We all want to prevent our children from getting cavities. It can be hard to make sure you’re doing everything you can in order to prevent your child from having dental problems. Fluoride is an easy way to ensure that your child’s teeth are protected. Below are a few things parents should know about fluoride and how it can help: 

• What is fluoride?
  Fluoride is a natural compound that comes from fluorine. This element has been proven to reverse early signs of tooth decay and can even help in preventing cavities from developing. The bacteria that feed on the plaque inside your child’s mouth produces acid, which will eat away at the enamel on his or her teeth. Fluoride prevents this acid from damaging enamel by protecting and re-mineralizing the teeth. 
• How much fluoride should my child get?
  The easiest way to protect your family’s teeth is with fluoridated tap water. Around 60% of households in the United States have fluoridated tap water in their home! You should be able to easily discover how much, if any, fluoride is in the tap water in your area. The number is typically anywhere between 0.7 and 1.2 ppm. However, if you’re in an area where fluoridated water isn’t provided, there are other ways to supplement it in your family’s diet. Types of toothpaste, mouth rinses, and some bottled waters will also contain fluoride. Be sure to check with us about how much fluoride your children should be receiving, based on your child’s age, size, and other factors. 

The best way to help prevent dental problems is to make sure your children receive regular pediatric dental exams and cleanings. To schedule an appointment at Firestone Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, please contact our Firestone, CO children’s dental office today.