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Friday, April 1, 2011

Dental Care for Children - The Fluoride Controversy

What is fluoride?

Fluoride is derived from fluorine and exists naturally in water sources. It 's the thirteenth most abundant element in Earth's crust. Fluoride is necessary to prevent and even reverse early decay of teeth. It strengthens the enamel, the outer layer of teeth, so it can better resist the acid formed by plaque. Fluoride also allows damaged teeth to remineralize acid (to fix itself automatically). Fluoride is especially important for the health of developing teeth in children.

Why fluoride is controversial?

Over fluoridation of water is dangerous and harmful, and some advocacy groups publish reports on the dangers of fluoridation. They refer to the instructions on the toxicity of toothpaste and found that all substances that need such care with the dosage can be dangerous.
In response to these statements, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reviewed the research for caries prevention and public order. NIH agreed with the anti-fluoride activists that many studies in this area are of poor quality, but the NIH panel concluded that the irregularities of the study does not negate the benefits of fluoride are clear. NIH found that a drastic reduction in caries over the past 30 years due to the fluoridation of water supplies as well as parents and health professionals should continue to ensure that children receive enough fluoride to prevent tooth decay.

How much fluoride is my child needs?

Living in the area not fluoride should consult your dentist the possible need for fluoride drops, tablets, or vitamins after your baby is 6 months. American Dental Association recommends that children begin with a fluoride toothpaste at approximately two to three years. Prior to this, parents should clean the child's teeth with water or a fluoride toothpaste for children, and a soft toothbrush.
Children should only use a pea toothpaste and spit out as much as possible after brushing. Even a small amount of toothpaste supplies enough fluoride to protect teeth, but minimizes the risk of side effects of too much fluoride.

What about mouthwashes that contain fluoride?

Just rinse your mouth clearly marked "anticavity fluoride" includes fluorine. Those governed by the SU Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and approved the ADA. mouthwash should be used for children aged 6 and children under 6 are not fully developed their talent to spit.

Ask your family dentist or pediatric dentist about dental care of your child, if he/she needs fluoride. A dentist can help you better understand how the teeth use fluoride.



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