Fluoride has become synonymous with properly caring for your teeth. You can find the compound on the ingredient list of most toothpastes and mouthwashes. Children who don’t seem to get enough fluoride are sometimes prescribed supplemental tablets and fluoride treatments. Fluoride works to strengthen tooth enamel topically while also creating a slick and slippery surface on teeth so bacteria cannot stick. Fluoride is offered to our youngest patients by Houston children’s dentist, Dr. Deborah Gennero.
Fluoride All Around Us
Fluoride is derived from fluorine, a mineral element that is found in small amounts in air, water, and even some foods. Because it has a natural source, fluoride is considered to be safe as an additive in toothpastes and mouthwashes. Water-fluoridation is even common in many American neighborhoods. The systems are checked on a daily basis to ensure safe levels of fluoride in our drinking water. The American Dental Hygienists’ Association notes that adding fluoride to water in the United States has reduced tooth decay by up to 60% since World War II.
Fluorosis
Though fluoride does surround us naturally, the amount found in a serving of food or the air that we breathe is not enough to adequately fight tooth decay. You will still want to seek fluoride from a variety of sources. Just be careful about how much fluoride you expose your little ones to. Children under the age of 6 who are exposed to extremely high doses of fluoride are at risk for a condition called fluorosis. Though rare, a child with fluorosis will develop discoloration on newly emerging teeth. To avoid this, supervise young children when they brush their teeth. Also keep toothpastes and mouthwashes out of the reach of curious kids.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Houston Dentist
Remember, regular checkups and cleanings help protect your children’s smiles. Call Dr. Gennero today for a consultation by contacting our Houston dentist office at (281) 578-6200. We are proud to offer comprehensive dentistry to patients from Clear Lake to The Woodlands, including Katy, West Houston, Sugarland, the 77084 zip code, and surrounding neighborhoods.
