Fluoride
Fluoride encourages remineralization (a strengthening of weak areas on
the tooth). These areas are the beginning spots of cavity formation.
Fluoride is sometimes added in water and in dental products such as
toothpaste, mouth rinses, varnish, and supplements. Fluoride is documented
to be safe and highly effective if used in the recommended quantities.
You only need to use small amounts of fluoride to get the maximum benefit.
It is important to keep toothpaste, gel, rinses and other supplements out
of reach for your children and only allow them to use those products with
your supervision.
If the water where you live does not have enough fluoride, your pediatric
dentist may prescribe fluoride supplements in the form of drops or pills.
These will be given to your child starting at about 6 months of age until they
are 12 to 16 years old. Only use these as directed because too much fluoride
can stain spots on your childs teeth. You can also call your local water
company to see if your water is being fluoridated. If you are unsure that
your water is fluoridated, you may bring a sample of the drinking water to
our office for water analysis. Please call our office or speak to our staff
at your childs next appointment for fluoride testing instructions.
At each dental follow up appointment, we may provide your child with fluoride
treatments, depending on the childs age and overall risk for tooth decay.
Treatments are in the form of topical fluoride that comes in many forms. Gels
and foams can be placed in fluoride trays and applied after your childs teeth
have been thoroughly cleaned. We may also use fluoride varnish. The advantages
of varnish are that it is easy and quick to apply, decreases the amount of fluoride
digested, and continues to soak into the enamel for about 24 hours after its
application. Using varnish is useful for young patients and those children
with special needs.
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New Location Opening in Fall
Our new office at Cedar Crest will be open on October 5, 2010.