In this article, we ask ‘how does fluoride protect children’s teeth?’ and after this, we look at why it is crucial for good children’s dental health. Fluoride is commonly added to toothpaste, mouthwash and other dental products and is a mineral that can help protect children’s teeth from decay and cavities.
What is Fluoride?
This is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in rocks, soil, water and even in some foods. It’s crucial because it can help prevent tooth decay, and with prevention being better than cure, this is important. Fluoride in oral care products makes teeth more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugars in the mouth. This mineral also helps to repair the early stages of tooth decay before it becomes a cavity.
How Does Fluoride Protect Children’s Teeth?
- Strengthens tooth enamel. Fluoride helps to strengthen the tooth enamel, which is the outer layer of the tooth. A stronger enamel means that the tooth is more resistant to decay.
- Remineralises teeth. It can help to replace minerals in the tooth enamel that have been lost due to acid attacks from bacteria and sugars in the mouth. This process is called ‘remineralisation’ and can help to repair the early stages of tooth decay before it becomes a cavity.
- Reduces acid production. Fluoride can also help to reduce the amount of acid that bacteria in the mouth produce. This subsequently reduces the number of acid attacks on the teeth and can help to prevent tooth decay.
Fluoride for Children’s Dental Health
This important mineral is crucial for good children’s dental health because it can help to prevent tooth decay and cavities. Tooth decay is a significant problem in children and can cause pain, infection, and even tooth loss. By using fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash, and drinking fluoridated water, children can help protect their teeth from decay.
In addition, fluoride is safe and effective when used in the right amounts. The American Dental Association recommends that children receive a fluoride treatment at the dentist every six months. Their advice also recommends that children use fluoride toothpaste in order to maintain their overall oral health.
Summary
- Fluoride is a crucial mineral for good children’s dental health.
- It helps protect children’s teeth from decay and cavities by strengthening tooth enamel, remineralising teeth and reducing the production of acid.
- By using fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash and drinking fluoridated water, children can help to maintain good dental health.
- Make sure your child visits the dentist regularly to ensure your child’s teeth are healthy and strong.
- If your child has a fear of the dentist, then choose a pediatric dentist, as they are specifically trained and experienced in putting kids at ease.
