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If the dentist at 37206 told you to start incorporating fluoride into your child’s oral hygiene routine, you may wonder how beneficial this substance can be to your baby’s health. After all, fluoride toothpaste is a well-accepted tool in dentistry—however, misinformation has started to put a harmless product in doubt. 

Fluoride is a common mineral in nature, water, and even our bones. We came up with this guide to help you understand its benefits so that you can rest assured knowing you’re doing what’s best for your child’s smile.

Why is Fluoride Good for Oral Health?

In appropriate doses, fluoride has proven to help reinforce the dental enamel, prevent tooth decay, and even reduce cavities that have already taken place. 

Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that live in the mouth. These feed on sugars from food debris that remains when you don’t brush your teeth, and to do so, they produce acids. 

These acids can create tiny holes in your child’s enamel, weakening it. As the holes get bigger, the enamel is damaged beyond repair, and a cavity emerges. Once decay reaches the center of the tooth, where the nerves are located, your child will start experiencing toothaches, leading to missed days of school, and develop a severe infection. 

Luckily, fluoride can stop tooth decay from spreading—and may even prevent it from happening in the first place. It can stop the development of cavity-causing bacteria, strengthen dental enamel, and prevent early stages of tooth decay in people of all ages. 

This reduces the need for restorative treatments such as fillings and tooth extractions, promoting a healthier smile.

Risks of Overusing Fluoride 

You may wonder, if fluoride is so beneficial, why does it have a negative impression? While completely safe for your child, overuse of fluoride can lead to fluorosis, a condition in which spots develop on children’s teeth. These can range from light white to dark brown. 

They’re more common in children who are still developing, that is, under the age of 6. 

Fluorosis often occurs when children swallow toothpaste with fluoride instead of spitting it. Therefore, controlling that your child doesn’t swallow their toothpaste after brushing is key while they’re young. Additionally, we recommend avoiding flavored toothpastes, as they’re more prone to give these a try. 

Fluorosis cannot be removed with a toothbrush, but a dentist may be able to treat it with special bleaching methods.

When Is Fluoride Intake Most Important? 

Fluoride intake is recommended for infants and children aged 6 months to 16 years. Fluoride is beneficial to developing teeth as well as teeth that have already erupted. 

Nonetheless, the American Dental Association (ADA) advises infants and young children to limit their fluoride intake to avoid fluorosis.

Protect Your Child’s Smile with the Dentist in 37206 

Fluoride is a fundamental aid for your child’s oral health. By preventing and reducing cavities, it ensures your child can eat, speak, and smile brightly without worry. 

Moreover, incorporating fluoride into your child’s oral hygiene routine can reduce the overall costs of dental treatments by avoiding restorative procedures such as fillings. If you suspect your child could benefit from a fluoride treatment, contact Greenwood Local Dentistry today for a professional assessment!