As a parent, you’re always looking for a way to ensure your children’s oral health, which is why you’re diligent about scheduling their semi-annual preventive dentistry visits and encouraging them to practice excellent oral hygiene. The reality, though, is that kids will be kids, so you can’t be 100% sure that they’re adhering to the recommendations that they’ve been given. This is why your children’s dentist center suggests that you consider fluoride treatments for your young ones. As you continue reading you’ll learn more about why this is so valuable to their dental wellness.
What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a mineral that naturally strengthens tooth enamel, the outer layer that fights to repel harmful bacteria, plaque, sugars and other maladies that seek to invade teeth. It is quite significant to the healthy maintenance of your children’s ivories as early as their toddler years. This is because the moment they start eating solid food, bacteria growth abounds in their mouth, feeding on the leftover food particles.
Where Can Fluoride be Found?
Thanks to the discovery made in the early 20th century of the effectiveness of fluoride on lowering the number of dental caries (cavities), the majority of U.S. cities now add fluoride to their water supplies. Therefore, a simple glass of tap water now holds far more benefits than just quenching one’s thirst.
However, the amount supplied from local municipalities is not sufficient given that bacteria are always replenished when your children eat. To remedy, we recommend that your children brush their teeth more often with toothpaste that contains fluoride. Although this is a logical response, there are two problems that arise:
- You can’t always monitor your children’s oral hygiene habits.
- And it’s very hard to ensure that they’re drinking enough tap water when you’re not around.
Fluoride Treatments as an Alternative
Thankfully, there is an alternative that can allow you to have more peace-of-mind: fluoride treatments provided by your local dentist. A topical application, this method may be recommended as part of the semi-annual checkup. The great value is that these treatments are applied quickly and will attract the necessary minerals your children’s teeth need to strengthen the enamel.
This will save you the headache of having to schedule visit after visit to have cavities filled and allow your kids to get off to a firm foundation of oral health.
To schedule your young ones for their treatments, just reach out to your kids’ dentist center and enjoy the peace-of-mind of knowing that your children are protected.
About the Author
Dr. Thomas Youngblood received his Bachelor of Science degree from Texas A&M University and then went on to earn his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Dental School. He’s an affiliate member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and other professional organizations. Dr. Youngblood practices at Children’s Dental Center and can be reached for more information through his website.