How Does Fluoride Work?

There are two types of fluoride used at Family Comprehensive & Cosmetic Dentistry, serving Jacksonville, NC and surrounding communities:

  • Topical Fluoride: Strengthen the teeth once they have erupted (broken through the gum) by seeping into the outer surface of the tooth’s enamel, making the teeth more resistant to tooth decay. Topical fluoride is found in dental products like toothpaste, mouthwash, and gels. Our dentists generally recommend that children have a professional application twice annually at their dental exams and cleaning appointments.
  • Systemic Fluoride: This type of fluoride strengthens erupted teeth and teeth developing under the gums. It is available as a supplement in drops or gel form, and our dentists can prescribe it if necessary for your child.

Generally speaking, fluoride drops are recommended most for infants, and tablets are reserved for older children in the teenage years. The amount of fluoride your child ingests should be monitored because consuming too much while the teeth are still developing may lead to a condition known as “fluorosis” (white spots on the teeth).

Fluoride works well against cavities via both topical and systemic deliveries. It prevents tooth demineralization, promotes re-mineralization, and hinders bacteria growth in the mouth. Our Jacksonville dentists believe the topical application provides the most benefits. At the same time, systemic use (like in drinking water) helps to solidify the enamel and promote its resistance to demineralization.

Fluoride Deficiency

Our dentists are trained to spot the signs of a fluoride deficiency in a patient; signs and symptoms of a fluoride deficiency include:

  • Deep pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of the teeth
  • Exposed and sensitive root surfaces
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Inadequate saliva production and flow due to certain medical conditions, medical treatments, or medications
  • Frequent sugar and carbohydrate intake
  • Inadequate exposure to fluorides
  • History of tooth decay
  • Deep pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of the teeth
  • Exposed and sensitive root surfaces
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Frequent sugar and carbohydrate intake
  • Inadequate exposure to fluorides
  • Inadequate saliva production and flow due to certain medical conditions, medical treatments, or medications
  • History of tooth decay

If you are concerned about your child’s dental health and feel that fluoride treatments may be necessary, please contact us today to schedule a new patient appointment.

When Should My Child Use Fluoride Toothpaste?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends using just a “smear” of fluoridated toothpaste beginning when the first tooth appears until your child turns three. A pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste can start being used at this age. Still, please ask our Jacksonville dentists about fluoride safety and precautionary measures recommended for young children, especially those under six, at your child’s appointment.

We would be happy to share our views with you and make recommendations based on your child’s medical/dental history and current state of dental health. As always, we encourage our patients to ask any questions they have; educating patients about best practices regarding oral health is something we have been passionate about since our practice first opened.

Contact Us Today

Please call Family Comprehensive & Cosmetic Dentistry today (910) 353-5171 to schedule an appointment, or you may fill out our online contact form to request an appointment or ask any questions. If you want to start your children’s fluoride treatments soon, we’d be happy to schedule them at our first available date and time with one of our Jacksonville, NC dentists.