Dental Care for Children - The Fluoride Controversy

What is fluoride?

Fluoride is derived from fluorine and exists naturally in water sources. This is the thirteenth most common element in the Earth's crust. Fluoride helps prevent and even reverse the early stages of decay. It strengthens tooth enamel, the outer layer of our teeth, so that it can better resist the acid formed by plaque. Fluoride also allows teeth damaged by acid remineralize (repair themselves). Fluoride is especially important for dental health in children in developing countries.

Why is Fluoride Controversial?

addition of fluoride to the water supply is dangerous and harmful, and some advocacy groups publish reports on the dangers of fluoridation. They indicate the toxicity warnings on toothpaste, concluding that any substance should be wary of such a dose must be dangerous.

In response to these claims, National Institutes of Health (NIH) reviewed research on dental caries prevention and public politike.NIH disagreed with the anti-fluoride activists that many studies in this area are of poor quality, however, the NIH panel concluded that the disparity study does not invalidate the clear advantage fluorida.NIH noted that the dramatic reduction in tooth decay over the past 30 years due to the fluoridation of water supply, and parents and health professionals should continue to ensure that children receive enough fluoride to prevent the cavity.

How much fluoride my child need?

Those who live in non-fluoridated area should consult your dentist about the potential need for fluoride drops, tablets, or vitamins after your baby is 6 mjeseci.American Dental Association recommends that children begin to use toothpaste with fluoride around the age of two or three. Before that, parents should brush their teeth in a child with water, or fluoride-free baby toothpaste, a soft bristled toothbrush.

Children should use only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and spit out as much as possible after brushing. Even a small amount of toothpaste supplies enough fluoride to protect teeth, but it reduces the chances of side effects of too much fluoride.

What is a mouth rinse containing fluoride?

only mouth rinses clearly labeled "with fluoride anticavity" contains fluoride. These are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are approved by the ADA. The mouth rinse should be used by children ages 6 and older than those under 6 are not fully developed their skills spitting.

Ask your family dentist or pediatric dentist for information on child dental care and fluoride potrebe.Stomatolog can help you understand more about how fluoride affects the teeth.