Fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel, so it’s important to get enough each day. You can find fluoride in your toothpaste, fluoridated drinking water, and even foods produced with fluoridated water, including juice and canned foods.
WHEN DOES MY CHILD START USING FLUORIDE TOOTHPASTE?
We recommend that your child starts using fluoride toothpaste when teeth first arrive. There are many benefits to using fluoride toothpaste this early. Some of those benefits include limiting the growth of bacteria, strengthens teeth, makes teeth less susceptible to cavities, and helps fight early tooth decay. Our groovy team recommends using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for ages three and up. For patients under the age of 2, we recommend a smear layer (the size of a piece of rice). It is very important to wipe your child’s mouth after brushing their teeth.
BE CAUTIOUS OF TOO MUCH FLUORIDE TOOTHPASTE
Of course, we all know that too much of anything can be a bad thing. There are some negative side effects to watch out for if you are using too much fluoride toothpaste. If your child is getting too much fluoride, it could lead to Dental Fluorosis. Dental Fluorosis is a condition that can occur in children under the age of 8 years old and will cause permanent cosmetic damage to their teeth. If you have any questions or concerns about this topic, please give us a call or ask us the next time you are in the office.