The 411 On Fluoride
By Ashley Valco
What is the deal with fluoride? Just like everything else, fluoride is only good in moderation. Even water can cause harm if consumed in large quantities. The benefits of fluoride far outweigh any possible risks. Good or bad, agree or disagree, I am simply going to list the most important things you need to know about fluoride along with the most frequently asked questions.
What is fluoride?
Fluoride occurs naturally in several minerals of the earth. It is used topically and systemically to prevent tooth decay and sensitivity.
How does fluoride work to prevent cavities?
Tooth decay is caused by certain bacteria in the mouth. When that bacteria consumes the sugars and carbohydrates you eat, it produces an acidic waste that removes essential minerals from the enamel (surfaces of your teeth). Enamel is strong and solid but weakens when exposed to acid. Fluoride helps remineralize those weakened surfaces to prevent cavities from forming or reverse small cavities that have started.
My child is already getting fluoride at home, why should we get it in the office?
This is a very common question I am asked often. There are two different types of fluoride therapy: systemic and topical.
Systemic fluoride is ingested, ie: water, tablets, or drops. It is beneficial during the development of teeth, before they erupt.
Topical fluoride is applied to the teeth, ie: toothpaste, rinses, gels, varnishes. This is beneficial after the teeth are present in the mouth.
There are lower amounts of fluoride in regular toothpaste than in fluoride treatments in the office. In our office we use a fluoride varnish. It is painted on the teeth and uses a much smaller amount that the older process of rinsing or using trays. It is very tacky and sets within seconds, allowing you to eat and drink right away. (Avoid hot and crunchy!) This delivery of fluoride will be absorbed into the teeth until it is cleaned off that night. Avoid cleaning for 4-6 hours to get the full effect. Because of the tackiness there isn’t a risk of ingestion and it doesn’t rinse away.
Children sometimes have white spots on their teeth. They are called White Spot Lesions and they are the demineralized beginning stages of a cavity. These areas are those that benefit most from applied fluoride to reverse them.
Does my public water system have fluoridated water?
Just about all water naturally has traces of fluoride, however, not usually enough to prevent tooth decay. Many communities decide to modify the amount of fluoride in the water to reduce the occurrence of tooth decay.
It is best to call your own water company to find out if your water is fluoridated.
I was under the impression my own water was fluoridated. When I had my son I called Peco to find out, just in case. They told me someone from their lab would call me back. About 15 minutes later, a lab technician called me back to tell me that I did not have fluoride in my water. Glad I called!
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) named water fluoridation one of the Ten Great Public Health Interventions of the 20th Century.
Is my child getting an appropriate amount of fluoride?
This should be discussed with your dental hygienist and dentist. Every child has different needs and your dental professional will be able to tell you how much fluoride they need.
When should my child start using fluoridated tooth paste?
This is directly from The Journal of the American Dental Association (Feb 2014)
▬ For children younger than 3 years, caregivers should begin brushing children’s teeth as soon as they begin to come into the mouth by using fluoride toothpaste in an amount no more than a smear or the size of a grain of rice (Figure). Brush teeth thoroughly twice per day (morning and night) or as directed by a dentist. Supervise children’s brushing to ensure that they use the appropriate amount of toothpaste.
▬ For children 3 to 6 years of age, caregivers should dispense no more than a pea-sized amount (Figure) of fluoride toothpaste. Brush teeth thoroughly twice per day (morning and night) or as directed by a dentist. Supervise children’s brushing to minimize swallowing of toothpaste.
▬ It is especially critical that dentists provide counseling to caregivers that involves the use of oral description, visual aids and actual demonstration to help ensure that the appropriate amount of toothpaste is used.
What are the indications for fluoride therapy?
Your dental professional should always look at your child as an individual. Always consult with a dentist before starting any home fluoride regimen. Keep in mind that topical fluoride is just as beneficial to adults as it is to children. Any of the indications below apply to adults and children:
- White spots
- Those that are at high risk of developing decay
- Dry mouth
- Orthodontic treatment
- Areas of tissue that have receded and exposed a root surface
- Present decay
- Reduction of tooth sensitivity
- Children that live in areas without fluoridated water for added protection
- Those with special needs that prevent adequate cleanings at home
- Those using inhalers or asthma medications
If you have any further questions about fluoride ask your dentist/hygienist. Feel free to call our office as well. Myself and Dr. Alex would be more than happy to answer any questions you have!
