Importance of Fluoride for Oral Health According to a report published by the World Health Organization (WHO), almost half of the world suffers from oral diseases, which clearly indicates that many people do not have access to the treatment and prevention of common oral diseases.Our dental professionals at Jacobsen Pediatric Dentistry recommend being vigilant and consistent about your children's dental appointments so that no progressive oral diseases develop and affect the health of their teeth, gums, and bone health. And that includes a fluoride treatment. What is Fluoride Treatment?Fluoride treatment protects the enamel against cavities. Fluoride is a mineral that builds tooth enamel and prevents tooth decay. A body can either absorb fluoride systemically via fluoridated tap water or dietary supplements, or you can directly apply it on teeth via a fluoride treatment or toothpaste and mouthwashes. Dentistry for KidsHealthy teeth and gums are as important for kids as they are for adults. But since children tend to consume sweets, chocolates, and candies in greater amounts than adults, dentists recommend developing good dental habits and fluoride treatments once the first set of baby teeth start to appear. The dentist will examine the oral health and eating habits of your child and how likely it is that they will develop a cavity, and then recommend how many times a fluoride varnish treatment should be done. Usually, a pediatrician will apply the fluoride varnish to your child's teeth, and this dental treatment will prevent, slow down, or treat cavities. Fluoride varnishes are enriched with fluoride, a natural mineral that protects their tooth enamel from damage and decay. Is Fluoride Treatment a Safe Treatment for Kids?Fluoride treatment is a safe and highly recommended dental treatment, and dentists all over the world help their adult and younger patients prevent tooth decay with this treatment. In a fluoride treatment procedure, only a small amount of fluoride is used to coat the teeth, which reduces the chances of swallowing this material, especially by children. The fluoride sticks to the teeth and hardens after a few hours when the teeth absorb the mineral. After the treatment, a patient is recommended to brush their teeth to wash away the fluoride after four to 12 hours. The fluoride treatment is painted on all sides of each tooth with a small brush. It is a sticky formula at first but hardens after it comes in contact with the saliva. It is a safe treatment for children, as even if they try to lick it off their teeth, the varnish won't come off. The dentist will recommend eating soft and cold foods right after the fluoride treatment. They also advise not to brush or floss your child's teeth for at least four to six hours. How Can I Incorporate Other Sources of Fluoride in My Child's Lifestyle?Community water supplies throughout America contain fluoridated drinking water which is an initiative to prevent tooth decay. Your child can get fluoride through tap water, fluoride toothpaste, and mouthwashes. Small amounts of fluoride are also present in various foods, but fluoridated water is the most important source to provide this important mineral to your child's daily routine. Our dental professionals Dr. Eric Jacobsen know the value of preventing tooth decay before it progresses to a serious condition, so call (971) 459-2431 to book your child's appointment and take the first step towards improving your child's oral health. |
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