Fluoride is a naturally occurring chemical found in the earth. Many municipalities put fluoride into their water to improve health for their residents. Fluoride is most known with its relation to stronger bones and by association stronger teeth. Many dentists will recommend fluoride toothpaste for your son or daughter if they are having issues with their teeth. However, fluoride toothpaste is not recommended for everyone. Children under the age of 6 are rarely prescribed fluoride toothpaste because of the potentials dangers of swallowing it and causing fluorosis.
Fluorosis is a medical conditioned caused by too much fluoride being ingested. Fluorosis mainly affects the development of tooth enamel. It often causes white spots or streaks to appear on the teeth. Fluorosis is not necessarily dangerous but can cause discoloration of teeth, it most commonly occurs in individuals who are exposed to too much fluoride before the age of eight. Fortunately fluorosis doesn’t present any dental health related issues for you or your child, that being said it is still recommended that young children do not use fluoride toothpaste.
Fluoride toothpaste has many benefits. Fluoride toothpaste is designed to have a topical application, meaning the toothpaste should not be ingested. Fluoride is considered the most effective cavity prevention treatment available. This is why dentists will often apply fluoride to children and adult’s teeth during routine treatment. Fluoride reduces plaque, removes tartar, and protects teeth from decay.
Most toothpastes on the market are not labeled as fluoride toothpaste. Their main ingredients aren’t designed to strengthen teeth, but simple to clean them. Most toothpastes contain ingredients that are mildly abrasive and can help scrub off plaque and tartar off of the surfaces of teeth. Additionally these toothpastes have chemical compounds that can help whiten teeth, remove stains, and dissolve and break down bacteria and food. Non-fluoride toothpaste is definitely effective at keeping teeth clean, but fluoride toothpaste provides the added benefit of strengthening teeth.
If you have questions about fluoride toothpaste or want to know if it is right for you or your child, you should talk it over with your dentist. Fluoride toothpaste is not always recommended. Many patients can get by with good flossing and brushing habits and regular fluoride treatments at six month intervals when they visit the dentist. Fluoride toothpaste is ideal for kids, teens, and adults whose teeth are at a higher risk for decay and cavities. For more information please contact our dental office in Revere.