As a pediatric dentist, Dr. Stuart Scott understands the important role fluoride plays in your child’s oral health. The more fluoride children receive, the less likely they are to develop cavities and other dental problems. Though many dental products contain fluoride supplements, it can be difficult to determine if your children are getting enough. In this blog, Dr. Stuart Scott discusses what you can do to ensure your child gets the fluoride they need.
What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in the earth’s crust. In the 1930s, scientists discovered that fluoride offers many oral health benefits, such as preventing tooth decay. Since then, fluoride has been a major component of dental hygiene.
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Is Your Child Getting Enough Fluoride?
Without adequate fluoride, your child might be at-risk for tooth decay and other serious dental problems. Luckily, most public water supplies contain fluoride as a public health measure. If your child drinks tap water, they will receive a decent amount of fluoride. For children under the age of three, the fluoride they receive from water is sufficient. Older children, however, should use a fluoride toothpaste in addition to drinking tap water.
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What Can You Do?
Though fluoride is found in most public water supplies and a wide range of dental products, some children do not get the amount they need. Some children do not drink tap water. Sticking to bottled water or purified water, they do not get the fluoride that other children receive from tap water. Other children eat too many sugary foods or drink too many soft drinks, which can counteract the positive effects of fluoride.
To ensure your child gets enough fluoride, give them one or two glasses of tap water a day. Additionally, eliminate sugary foods from their diet, making candy and soda an occasional treat, not a daily snack. When they are over the age of three, you can give your child fluoride toothpaste, which will increase the amount of fluoride they receive.
You can also speak with Dr. Stuart Scott at Parkcrest Dental Group. He will take a look at your child’s teeth and assess if they are receiving enough fluoride. If they are not receiving enough fluoride, he may recommend fluoride treatments at the dental office.
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Contact Dr. Stuart Scott
Dr. Stuart Scott is dedicated to educating children and their parents about healthy dental habits. His office has a fun, relaxed, and kid-friendly atmosphere, and his staff is always excited to assist new customers. To learn more about his services or schedule a check-up for your child, contact Dr. Stuart Scott today at (417) 887-1220.
