Let's Talk About Fluoride

Okay first of all, fluoride is a controversial subject and everyone is entitled to their own opinion regarding fluoride... And this is mine...

IT'S A VERY GOOD THING!!!

Especially for kids, fluoride is one of the best ways to ensure strong teeth, and later, fewer cavities! When fluoride is combined with tooth structure, a substance known as fluorapitite is formed, which is stronger than the original structure (hydroxyapitite). The new fluorapitite is made of bigger molecules allowing less absorption.

You don't have to take my word for it though because here is what the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (a non profit org dedicated to children's dental health) has to say about fluoride.

* Using small amounts of fluoride on a routine basis can help prevent tooth decay

* Research shows that community water fluoridation has lowered decay rates by over 50 percent, which means that fewer children grow up with cavities.

* Using fluoride for the prevention and control of decay is proven to be both safe and effective. Nevertheless, products containing fluoride should be stored out of the reach of young children.

* Too much fluoride could cause fluorosis of developing permanent teeth. Fluorosis usually is mild, with tiny white specks or streaks that often are unnoticeable. In severe cases of fluorosis, the enamel may be pitted with brown discoloration. Development of fluorosis depends on the amount, duration and timing of excessive fluoride intake.

* Your child should use toothpaste with fluoride when they can expectorate (spit).

* Brushing twice a day (after breakfast and before bedtime) provides greater benefits than brushing once daily. Parents should dispense toothpaste to prevent their young children from swallowing too much.

* For children under 2-years-old, use a smear of fluoridated toothpaste. For those aged 2 to 5 years, a pea

* Fluoride can be found as an active ingredient in many dental products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, gels and varnish.

Okay back to my words... Systemic (in body, not just mouth) fluoride is recommended starting at 6 months old because fluoride that is ingested can reach developing teeth and help them mineralize to their full capicity. This way when they erupt and are attacked by acid, they are better able to hold strong resulting in fewer cavities! This is why fluoridated water can be such a good thing--as not everyone has access to supplements and tablets.
According to the USPharmacist site on fluoride recommendations, "It is speculated that systemic fluoride supplements may decrease caries rates by 60% and that topical application may decrease caries activity by up to 40%."

Now back to the AAPD:
"The pediatric dentist considers many factors before recommending a fluoride supplement. Your child’s age, risk of developing dental decay and dietary sources of fluoride are important considerations. Infant formulas contain different amounts of fluoride. Bottled, filtered and well waters also vary in the amount of fluoride they contain. Your pediatric dentist can help determine if your child is receiving -- and not exceeding -- the recommended amount."

Here is a chart of the recommended dosage by age and according to how much fluoride is already in the water! This way, if you know how much fluoride (in parts per million) is in your water, you can calculate the difference!

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