Treating cavities is important, but preventing cavities is best. Children deserve the healthiest start to their lives, and a healthy smile is amongst the best gifts we can give them. Fluoride is vital in the prevention of cavities and the maintenance of healthy teeth. Read more to learn about the importance of fluoride treatment in Westfield.
Why Is Fluoride Important?
The most common disease in children and adults around the world is dental cavities. Fluoride is one of the safest and most effective ways that dentists can prevent cavities in both children and adults.
Our mouths contain bacteria that feed on the sugars in the substances we ingest. This creates acid, which eats away at the protective enamel surrounding our teeth, leading to cavities. Fluoride protects teeth by making our tooth enamel stronger and more acid-resistant. Not only does fluoride decrease the risk of cavities, but it can also reverse early signs of tooth decay.
Should I be Nervous About My Child Drinking Fluoridated Water?
No! Fluoridated water is one of the easiest ways to protect your child’s teeth. Sweet drinks such as fruit juice and soda contribute to tooth decay, while fluoridated water protects teeth. Hydration is always important, and water is always the best choice.
It would help if you also understood that fluoride is a naturally occurring substance found at some level in all-natural water sources. If your community adds fluoride to the water supply, you are just getting enough fluoride to help strengthen and protect your teeth.
When Should I Start Brushing My Child’s Teeth?
You should start cleaning your baby’s gums with a soft cloth before their teeth even begin to emerge. Once their first teeth begin to poke through the gums, brush them using a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste, equivalent to a grain of rice. This will allow you to spread fluoride on their teeth without them swallowing too much. Once your child becomes better at spitting, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and have them spit after brushing. It is important to continue to help your child brush until they reach about six years of age.
What Happens if My Child Swallows Fluoride Toothpaste?
If you are using the recommended amount of toothpaste for your child’s age and supervising their brushing, you shouldn’t have to worry about them swallowing it, and the small amount used should not cause them any harm.
When Should I Start Taking My Child to the Dentist?
You must schedule your child’s first dental appointment by their first birthday. If your child has teeth, they can get cavities. It is also a good idea to introduce your child to pediatric dentistry in Noblesville early on so that they develop a healthy relationship with dental hygiene and care.
How Will Fluoride Treatment Help My Child?
Fluoride treatment near you prevents cavities by strengthening the enamel of the teeth and can even reverse cavities that are just beginning to form. Fluoride treatment in Noblesville is brief and pain-free, so your child won’t feel any discomfort.
Visit Bumble Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Your child’s dental health is important, and getting them started on the right path to optimal oral health is of the utmost importance to our team at Bumble Kids Pediatric Dentistry. Our pediatric specialists will sit with your child and discuss the importance of dental hygiene and fluoride in an educational and fun way so that your child is excited about protecting their oral health.
If your child is due for a dental checkup or needs to come in for their first dental visit, we are happy to see them! Please contact our clinic to book a consultation today!