Dental Care for Children - What Does Fluoride Do?
Enamel, the outer layer of our teeth, protects our teeth from cavities and decay. Fluoride in toothpaste and in our drinking water makes the enamel even stronger. During routine dental visits, your dentist will give you a special fluoride treatment that helps to further strengthen the enamel. The frequency of fluoride application depends on the child's age and their cavity risk which is assessed by a pediatric dentist. Fluoride is often brushed on teeth in a foam or a liquid form and comes in a variety of kid friendly flavors. Once teeth are developed, fluoride makes the tooth structure more resistant to decay.
Fluoride acts topically in a process called remineralization. The calcium and phosphate in the fluoride helps to rebuild any weakened tooth enamel. Rebuilt enamel is more capable of resisting the tooth decay process.
How do you know if your child is getting enough fluoride? Chances are they are getting a sufficient amount from tap water and fluoride toothpaste. However, The American Dental Association warns parents against offering their children too much bottled water which often doesn't contain the same levels of fluoride found in tap water. Too little fluoride leaves teeth susceptible to cavities.
The American Dental Association recommends that children start using toothpaste with fluoride around the age of two or three. Prior to this, parents should clean their child's teeth with water and a soft bristled toothbrush. Children should brush with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day or after every meal. Flossing and regular dental checkups should also be part of the regimen.
Good oral habits, such as daily brushing and flossing, combined with regular dental visits beginning at age one will help children develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime. Since children emulate their parents, set a good example by flossing regularly and using positive reinforcement to motivate your child.
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Fluoride acts topically in a process called remineralization. The calcium and phosphate in the fluoride helps to rebuild any weakened tooth enamel. Rebuilt enamel is more capable of resisting the tooth decay process.
How do you know if your child is getting enough fluoride? Chances are they are getting a sufficient amount from tap water and fluoride toothpaste. However, The American Dental Association warns parents against offering their children too much bottled water which often doesn't contain the same levels of fluoride found in tap water. Too little fluoride leaves teeth susceptible to cavities.
The American Dental Association recommends that children start using toothpaste with fluoride around the age of two or three. Prior to this, parents should clean their child's teeth with water and a soft bristled toothbrush. Children should brush with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day or after every meal. Flossing and regular dental checkups should also be part of the regimen.
Good oral habits, such as daily brushing and flossing, combined with regular dental visits beginning at age one will help children develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime. Since children emulate their parents, set a good example by flossing regularly and using positive reinforcement to motivate your child.
http://www.ezinearticles.com
