Fluoride and Your Child

Fluoride is a mineral that combines with the tooth's enamel making it stronger and better able to resist decay. Fluoride also helps enhance the absorption of other beneficial minerals, such as calcium, that contribute to a tooth's decay fighting abilities. In the fight against cavities, fluoride is one of the most effective tools known.

The best way to get fluoride is through your drinking water (one part fluoride per million parts water). It is easily consumed and the amount is regulated for you. Fluoride is especially important for young children. When fluoride is ingested as teeth are forming, the fluoride becomes part of the teeth enamel making them very resistant to decay. In fact, children who consume drinking water with fluoride from birth have 50 percent fewer cavities, and many remain cavity free up into their teens.

Like any supplement, fluoride should be ingested only in the recommended amount of one part per million. Fluoride ingested through drinking water, which is carefully measured and regulated, is very different than ingesting fluoride toothpaste. It is advisable to teach children to spit out any remaining toothpaste and rinse with water.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office.