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First Visit
Fluoride
Mouthguards
Nitrous Oxide
Games
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When the element fluoride is used in small amounts on a routine basis
it helps to prevent tooth decay. It encourages "remineralization," a
strengthening of weak areas on the teeth. These spots are the beginning
of cavity formation. Fluoride is present in many different foods, as
well as dental products such as toothpastes and mouth rinses, however
there is no fluoride present in the Suffolk County water supply. Children between the ages of six months and 16 years are
recommended to supplement their diets with fluoride vitamins such as
poly vi-flor.
Your child should use toothpaste with fluoride and the American Dental
Association Seal of Acceptance. Young children, especially pre-school
aged children, should not swallow any toothpaste. Careful supervision
and only a small pea-sized amount on the brush are recommended. If not
monitored, children may easily swallow over four times the recommended
daily amount of fluoride in toothpaste.
Topical fluoride at our office
Topical fluoride comes in a number of different forms. Gels and foams
are placed in fluoride trays and applied at the dental office after
your child's teeth have been thoroughly cleaned. This fluoride can
stop cavities from forming. It is important not to eat or drink
anything for 30 minutes after your child has been treated.
Children who benefit the most from fluoride are those at highest risk
for dental decay. Riskfactors include:
• A history of decay
• High sucrose carbohydrate diet
• Orthodontic appliances
• Certain medical conditions such as dry mouth
Read what the ADA has to say about fluoride.
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