Fluoride and Dentistry
Saturday, February 7th, 2009Fluoride is a natural mineral found in the earth. Certain water supplies my have it occurring naturally where others my have little to no fluoride at all.
It was discovered that fluoride aids in the prevention of cavities and therefore is minimally added to our natural drinking water supply. Fluoride helps to bind calcium to the teeth, so it will strengthen the teeth, but with all things can be harmful if ingested in extremely large quantities. We do NOT recommend that children who cannot spit out properly (usually 6 years and under) use fluoridated toothpastes. Instead a fluoride-free toothpaste can be purchased; ingredients will be listed on the packaging if you are unsure. Fluoride will have NO ill effect on the teeth if only applied topically. However, if too much toothpaste is ingested, your child may get what is called fluorosis; a discolouration of the enamel ranging from minor white spotting, to yellow, brown mottled enamel.
The fluoride given to your child at their dental visit is much more potent than that found in the general public, and is ALWAYS monitored during administration to ensure that it isn?t swallowed. Your dental professional may apply a monitored topical fluoride treatment to you after a cleaning. If you are more susceptible to getting decay your dental team may also recommend to purchase a weekly or daily fluoride rinse from your local drug store or supermarket. Prices for these rinses vary from $5 and up.