Why Fluoride is so Important for Children – National Children’s Dental Health Month

February is National Dental Health Month, so the team at our children’s dentist in Montville, NJ, is helping raise awareness about dental health issues for kids! One of the most important tips for keeping your child’s teeth healthy and strong is to ensure that they are getting enough fluoride. Here’s some insight into how it helps prevent cavities.

What is Fluoride? 

Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral compound that strengthens teeth. When we eat and drink, our tooth enamel gets exposed to harmful bacteria that release an acid that slowly wears it down, creating opportunities for cavities. Fluoride molecules are attracted to these weak spots and bond with the molecules there, attracting calcium and phosphates that rebuild the tooth enamel and make it strong again.

It’s especially important that children get enough fluoride because they’re growing so quickly, with new teeth growing and appearing at a very rapid rate. It’s also important because – as every parent knows – brushing teeth is a challenge for kids, so it can be more difficult to properly remove harmful bacteria from teeth on a regular basis.

How do I Ensure My Child is Getting Enough Fluoride? 

While some foods do contain fluoride, the main sources of healthy fluoride are in topical treatments – that is, fluoride found in the water system, from quality toothpaste and dental treatments. Some tips to help ensure your child gets enough fluoride include:

• For children younger than 3, start brushing teeth as soon as they appear. Use a smear of fluoride toothpaste no bigger than a grain of rice.
• For children 3-6, use a pea-size amount of fluoride toothpaste and always supervise toothbrushing to ensure they spit out excess toothpaste.
• Visit a qualified dentist for kids in Montville NJ for regular check-ups and to schedule fluoride treatments along with teeth cleaning.
• If you have any concerns about your child’s dental health or want more information about how to clean your child’s teeth or help develop good oral health habits, don’t hesitate to speak to your children’s dentist. We’re happy to help!

Want to Find Out More? Visit a Dentist for Kids in Montville NJ 

At our children’s dentist in Montville, NJ, our friendly and welcoming team is dedicated to helping you and your family with all your dental health needs. With safe, state-of-the-art dental care and a stress-free, kid-friendly environment, we pride ourselves on giving each patient the individual attention and care that they deserve. If you would like to book or find out more about children’s dental health, please contact us today or visit our website at https://www.cannilla.com/