Fluoride treatments are important for the development of children’s teeth. It is a process that cleans tooth enamel and fights tooth decay. The Centers for Disease Control recommends adding fluoride to drinking water because it helps strengthen bone health, teeth, and brain function.
With all these benefits, most parents agree that fluoride treatment is the best form of dental care available for their children. A children’s dentist in Fullerton may have recommended this treatment for your child. So, why is fluoride used in dental treatments for kids?
Why Do You Need Fluoride Treatment?
The best way to prevent tooth decay and gum disease is with a fluoride treatment. A concentrated amount of fluoride is typically put on your teeth as a gel or foam during treatments. When fluoride is used, it will reach the enamel and protect against tooth decay and gum disease. Fluoride helps strengthen bones and teeth, as well as improve brain function.
If your child is under 6 years old, they will likely have more cavities compared to adults. It is important that you watch their teeth after they are born because baby teeth are very fragile. It is believed to start in utero and continue after birth. Most children have developed their primary teeth by age 3 or 4.
If you want to prevent any dental issues for your child, see a pediatric dentist in Fullerton as soon as possible for fluoride treatments and other dental services like checkups and cleanings.
How can Fluoride Prevent Tooth Decay?
There are several benefits of using fluoride on the teeth. Fluoride is a naturally occurring element in the enamel and is critical to good oral health. It is also what helps strengthen teeth and protect against tooth decay. The CDC recommends having fluoride treatments on every birthday for kids because it can reduce the risk of tooth decay and cavities by as much as 75 percent.
Fluoride concentrations in the mouth from toothpaste can be too low to prevent cavities. This is why fluoride treatments must be done by a professional. A dentist in Fullerton can be trusted to place the right amount of fluoride on your child’s teeth.
Also, see a pediatric dentist if you notice white dots or spots on your child’s teeth. These are called fluorosis and are normal for kids who have been exposed to higher levels of fluoride when they were younger.
