Is fluoride safe? Recently, many people have wondered how necessary and safe fluoride is. Additionally, a new and sometimes unheard option is hydroxyapatite.
Read this FAQ to learn all about fluoride and hydroxyapatite and which is the best and safest choice for you and your children.
What is fluoride?
Fluoride is a mineral widely used in dental care because it improves and strengthens tooth enamel and prevents cavities. However, it’s use has been debated in recent years over the safety and necessity of putting fluoride in the water. In this first section, we will answer your most frequently asked questions about fluoride.
Why would a kid need fluoride?
Fluoride integrates into the molecular structure of tooth enamel, making it more resistant to bacteria and sugars that cause cavities in children. It is used pediatrically for remineralization of teeth and cavity prevention.
Because of its low cost, it is a widely available mineral: it is generally found in toothpaste, dentists’ treatments, and even water, and it is present in almost every state in the United States.
Is our water mixed with fluoride?
In the United States, water is usually mixed with a supplemental amount of fluoride. The exception is in Utah, where new legislation will take effect on May 7, 2025, to ban the addition of fluoride to public drinking water. Although communities will be prohibited from adding fluoride to water, individuals will still be allowed to get prescriptions for fluoride supplementation.
Although water fluoridation is considered a public health measure to prevent cavities, North Dakota and Tennessee are joining the debate on mandatory fluoridation and considering banning fluoride in water. This debate stems from studies indicating that high amounts of fluoride can cause some problems, such as dental fluorosis.
What is dental fluorosis?
Excessive fluoridation has potential associated risks. One of these risks is dental fluorosis (also known as mottled enamel), which is especially worrisome in children, as they are forming the enamel, a protective layer of the tooth. Dental fluorosis usually presents with brown stains on the teeth in the most severe cases. Since most commercial toothpastes have fluoride added, to avoid dental fluorosis, you should:
Recommend children to never swallow toothpaste.
Start using fluoride toothpaste once your kid turns three.
Use only a small amount of toothpaste (usually pea-sized).
Consult with your dentist whether fluoridation as a supplement is necessary for each individual case.
If the damage from dental fluorosis is too great, cosmetic and whitening treatments can be used on teeth. Additionally, once your kid turns eight years old, the risk of developing dental fluorosis diminishes, as the enamel of permanent teeth is already formed.
How about breastfeeding and giving formula with fluoride water?
Another frequently asked question when fluoridating water is whether it is safe to mix formula with water when babies are still young. Although using fluoridated water to prepare formula may increase the risk of dental fluorosis, most cases are mild.
It is not necessary to supplement fluoride for infants who are breastfeeding or taking infant formula.
If you prefer not to use fluoride before your baby’s first tooth erupts, you can prepare the formula using fluoride-free water.
Could Fluoride be linked to my kid’s IQ?
Some studies (including U.S. government studies) have described the possibility that too high a level of fluoride may be linked to lower IQ scores in children. However, the levels in these studies are higher than the levels added in the US.
A recent analysis published in JAMA Pediatrics raised questions about whether it is safe to fluoridate water, especially for pregnant women and young babies, as children’s IQ may be affected. However, to reach meaningful conclusions, we need more studies on the topic.
What are some pros and cons of fluoride?
Some fluoride pros include:
It prevents tooth decay
It improves the enamel
It saves costs
Some fluoride cons include the following points:
The possibility of dental fluorosis
The possibility of overexposure
Supervision needed from the parents
What is hydroxyapatite?
Another mineral that is naturally occurring is hydroxyapatite. In recent years, it has emerged as a safe alternative to fluoride. Hydroxyapatite has the following applications useful for pediatric dental procedures:
Remineralizes teeth
Prevents cavities
Non-toxic
Reduces pain in children with hypomineralization
For pediatric patients, hydroxyapatite offers an effective solution as an alternative to fluoride.
What is hydroxyapatite toothpaste?
Hydroxyapatite toothpaste is a product specifically designed to be fluoride-free and to improve the mineral composition of the tooth, improving the enamel. Let’s analyze some key points of hydroxyapatite:
Remineralization: Hydroxyapatite particles fill the spaces in the enamel and restore its protective layer.
Reduction of sensitivity: This mineral also occludes the dental tubules, decreasing hypersensitivity and pain in the teeth.
Reduction of bacterial adhesion: Studies show that cavities are less likely to develop when using hydroxyapatite toothpaste.
Some individuals may have allergies to other products added to hydroxyapatite toothpaste, such as additives like xylitol or glycerin.
Can we use hydroxyapatite in preventive dental care?
Yes, Hydroxyapatite (HAp) is recognized as a safe replacement for fluorine. It can help in some specific aspects, such as:
Prevent tooth decay
Remineralize teeth
Prevent gingivitis or gum disease
Protect against tooth erosion
Hydroxyapatite is a fluoride-free alternative for the prevention of dental problems. Although it is more expensive than fluoride, many odontologists prefer it.
Is hydroxyapatite safe for children?
One of the greatest advantages of hydroxyapatite is the low risk it poses to children, unlike fluoride.
Hydroxyapatite can be ingested, and clinical research so far labels it as safe for children of all ages.
What are some of the cons of hydroxyapatite?
Even though hydroxyapatite has numerous advantages, there are some limitations for pediatric use. Compared to fluorine-containing products, some hydroxyapatite cons include the following:
Higher cost: The cost of hydroxyapatite compared to fluoride is significantly higher.
Fewer studies: There are decades of studies on fluorine, while hydroxyapatite is relatively new.
More difficult to obtain: Obtaining hydroxyapatite can be more difficult, so not many parents will opt for this option.
Which should I choose for my kid? Fluoride or Hydroxyapatite?
In the end, it is up to each parent to decide whether to use fluoride toothpaste or hydroxyapatite toothpaste. Now that you know the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision.
Your child’s overall state of health can be affected by the condition of their gums and teeth. For this very reason, your child’s pediatrician will talk to you about good dental habits for kids before their first tooth even erupts. It’s also why it’s so important to get your children to the dentist by the age of one to start regular checkups. Read more about this in our post, “At What Age Should You Take Your Child to the Dentist?”
Once your child’s very first tooth comes in, it is recommended by pediatricians and pediatric dentists that they started getting fluoride varnish treatments in order to help prevent tooth decay. Watch the video below to hear Dr. Jason Horgesheimer talk about the benefits of fluoride varnishes at South Davis Pediatric Dentistry.
Why are Fluoride Varnishes Important?
Fluoride varnishes are used to protect the teeth and to help prevent tooth decay. These fluoride treatments can be done two or four times per year. How often you get the treatments for your child is directly related to how likely it would be for your child to get a cavity.
“One of the benefits of coming to the dentist on a regular six-month basis is a fluoride treatment. Fluoride varnishes are simply smeared on the teeth and it’s very beneficial to intercept small little cavities. One or two applications of these fluoride varnishes can actually remineralize or strengthen these cavities so that we don’t need to actually restore them with a filling.” – Dr. Jason
While there are some pediatricians who will apply fluoride varnishes at their office, it is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) that the fluoride varnishes are applied at a dental office instead. Keep reading to learn more valuable information from the AAP regarding the use of fluoride varnish.
What is a Fluoride Varnish?
This is a type of dental treatment that can help prevent cavities and tooth decay, slow down the progression of tooth decay, or stop it altogether. Fluoride varnish is made with the mineral fluoride that’s known to strengthen the outer coating on the teeth, which is known as enamel.
It is important to realize that fluoride varnish treatments alone cannot completely prevent the formation of cavities. However, fluoride varnish treatments can help to prevent tooth decay and cavities when a child is also brushing their teeth with the right amount of fluoridated toothpaste, flossing regularly, eating a healthy diet, and visiting their pediatric dentist on a regular basis.
Are Fluoride Varnish Treatments Safe?
Fluoride varnish is safe. They are used by dentists and doctors around the entire world to help prevent cavities and prevent tooth decay from getting worse. The treatment alone contains a very small amount of fluoride and hardly any of it is swallowed. It hardens quickly immediately after it is applied. Then after four to twelve hours, it is brushed off.
Most children enjoy the taste of fluoride treatments as they are quite palatable. Some of the brands could make your child’s teeth appear yellow or dull, but this goes away once the treatment is brushed off.
How is Fluoride Varnish Applied to My Child’s Teeth?
The tincture which is known as the fluoride varnish is simply painted on the tops and the sides of each tooth with a little brush. At first, the substance may feel a bit sticky but as soon as it comes into contact with saliva it hardens. While your child might be able to feel the hardened varnish, they are not able to lick the varnish off of their teeth.
No pain is involved during the application process. However, some small children may still cry because they are fearful of the procedure. Brushing the varnish onto the teeth only takes a couple of minutes, and if the child is crying it can actually be applied at that time as their mouth will be slightly opened. In the case of small children, you may be asked to hold your child in your lap while you sit knee-to-knee with the person who is applying the varnish.
How Should I Care for My Child’s Teeth After the Fluoride Varnish is Applied?
Once the varnish has been applied to your child’s teeth, there are some general guidelines that you should pay attention to regarding the proper care for their teeth. Your doctor or pediatric dentist may offer other special instructions, so be sure to review with them as well.
Your child can start eating right after the varnish has been applied, but needs to avoid hot foods and drinks. Only cold and warm foods or liquids should be consumed right after the treatment.
Wait at least four to six hours before the child brushes or flosses their teeth. Many dentists will advise you to wait until the next morning to do so. Be sure that you instruct your child to spit everything out during the brushing of the fluoride varnish.
Other Reminders to Maintain Your Child’s Dental Health
Be sure your child is receiving care by a dentist who is specially trained to work with pediatric patients.
Ensure that your child receives enough – but not too much – fluoride.
Fluoride and fluoride varnishes are never meant to be swallowed. Be sure your child understands this.
Remind your child and check on them to be sure they are performing tooth brushing and flossing regularly.
Provide a healthy, balanced diet for your child full of fruits and vegetables.
It’s advised by the American Academy of Pediatrics to take your infant in for an oral health risk assessment by age six months or when their first tooth comes in (whichever comes first). This is especially true if the parents or other members of the family are especially prone to caries and tooth decay. Regardless, it’s important to have the child’s dental “home” established by their first birthday.
Do you have a baby that needs to be scheduled for their first check-up? Do you have children that are in need of fluoride varnish? Whatever the case may be, call the South Davis Pediatric Dentistry at (801) 294-8880 to get an appointment set up today. Physicians and parents throughout Bountiful, Centerville, Farmington, and Kaysville trust us for their child’s dental health needs, and so can you.
Cultural Approaches to Children’s Dental Care Around the World
We live in a world of thousands of diverse cultures and different languages. Manmade borders separate our lands. Most importantly, we have differing forms of governance, ways of life, and healthcare that, although practiced in an array of ways around the world, universally aim to help cure the sick and improve our overall well-being.
When it comes to children’s dental care, we may see some practices that pass down from generation to generation, such as some rural communities that rely on using twigs from specific trees to pick their children’s teeth, to those more modern who have adopted electrical toothbrushes to achieve their glimmering smile.
This article explores the different cultural practices and beliefs surrounding children’s dental health and hygiene globally, beginning with Asia, Africa, South America, and North America, and ending with Europe.
Asia
In Southeast Asia, we can see the tradition of ‘oil pulling’. This is a traditional folk remedy practiced in ancient India. When practiced regularly, this ancient practice is believed to cure more than thirty systemic diseases. For those who experience side effects from modern medicines and oral hygiene products, oil pulling is an attractive substitute. It can also have positive effects on overall health.
How to apply oil pulling in children?
In children, a teaspoon of oil is ‘pulled’ and forced between all the teeth by swishing it all around the mouth before breakfast on an empty stomach. Parents need to ensure that the child does not swallow the oil or spit it down the drain, where it will clog the pipes.
For some areas where children suffer from oral ulcers and brushing is difficult, oil pulling may be an advantageous substitute. Traditionally, sesame oil is the preferred oil.
Would you try oil pulling as part of your child’s daily dental routine?
Miswak Stick
A Miswak stick is also a cleaning method in Asian, African, Islamic, and Arabian cultures. The end is often chewed on to remove plaque, bacteria, and food debris from the teeth. Dental professionals consider these sticks to be of interest as they contain properties positive for oral health. However, most dentists consider them a supplement and not a replacement for modern oral care methods.
Africa
Africa also applies the Miswak stick. This method is popular for cleaning plaque and improving overall oral hygiene, particularly in North and East Africa. Most people know it for its natural fluoride content and antimicrobial properties. However, oral health is a major public health issue in West Africa, with almost no solutions provided by the government.
How are adolescents affected in Africa?
In most African countries, adolescence, a key period marked by biological, emotional, and social evolution and development, represents a critical period to influence adult oral health.
In West Africa, the adolescent population is disproportionately affected by oral disorders such as gum disease and tooth decay compared to the rest of the world. These issues manifest from the lack of available services, treatment availability, insurance coverage, and oral health knowledge and practices. To combat this, the local regions must improve oral health knowledge, early childhood nutrition, and better social and cultural conditions.
The phrase “it takes a village to raise a child” stems from Africa, where community-led child rearing is a known practice. In some African cultures, groups gather together to brush their teeth. This not only promotes good dental hygiene but also strengthens community bonds.
The next time you want your child to brush their teeth, maybe you can make it a family activity and gather together in front of the bathroom mirror before bed! This may combine your family’s overall oral health and social well-being.
Americas
We see a different approach from South America and North America, given the different cultural approaches each part of the continent has.
South America
In South America, we can see a rich history of health practices derived from indigenous tradition and Western dentistry. Indigenous communities often look to natural resources such as the coca leaf, which can numb the gums and offer pain relief. However, due to its stimulating effect, the coca leaf is not appropriate for children’s oral and overall health. Chamomile tea and guava leaves can produce tea that can alleviate toothaches, which could be a healthy and natural substitute for over-the-counter medicine for your child.
North America
In North America, Western dentistry practices are the most popular form of treatment. However, there has been an uptake in more natural remedies and oral healthcare treatments in recent years. For example, many orthodontic centres have started offering therapy dogs as a company for kids and young patients who suffer from anxiety when visiting the dentist. Perhaps the next time you visit your family dentist, you can settle your child’s nerves with a fluffy friend to make sure that you are all smiling from the moment your child sits in the dental chair, to the moment you leave.
Europe
In modern dental practices across Europe, one can find the latest in dental treatments and technologies, from 3D imaging for precision diagnostics to advanced materials for fillings and prosthetics. However, due to the high costs of European practitioners, many Europeans from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the UK travel to Serbia and Spain for treatments that would otherwise cost two to three times more in their home countries. As dentists are often trained in Germany, the UK, and the US, Serbia and Spain can offer high international standards of orthodontic care while offering lower costs.
Similarly, Poland is a favourite among UK and Scandinavian patients, offering 50-70% off home prices. High treatment and poorly implemented health coverage for the child population mean that large swathes of the European population are at risk of long-lasting negative impacts on oral and overall health. As a result, dental tourism has become more popular in recent years.
Natural remedies in Europe
Natural remedies are also present in Europe, particularly in Eastern European countries, where herbal rinses such as sage and mint have been passed down from generation to generation. In Europe, dental professionals advocate for a balanced approach between modern and traditional practices.
Different approaches affect the way we care for kids’ teeth
Despite the tremendous differences in ways of life across the globe, the universal objective of all forms of healthcare is to alleviate sickness and improve overall quality of life. Methods used in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Europe can be incorporated into your child’s dental routine to ensure they keep smiling for years to come. However, never forget to brush their teeth!
As parents, we often hear conflicting information about our children’s oral health. One common misconception that circulates among parents is the belief that baby teeth don’t matter because they eventually fall out. In fact, the reality is quite the opposite. Pediatric dentistry experts strongly emphasize the importance of baby teeth, and in this article, we aim to debunk this myth and shed light on why these tiny teeth play a crucial role in the development of your child’s oral health.
Myth: Baby Teeth Are Disposable
Baby teeth are indeed temporary, but they serve essential functions during your child’s early years. Here are some reasons why they matter:
Speech Development: Baby teeth help your child form sounds and words correctly. Losing them prematurely due to decay or other issues can hinder speech development.
Proper Nutrition: Chewing is crucial for breaking down food into manageable pieces for digestion. Baby teeth enable your child to eat a varied and balanced diet, which is essential for growth and development.
Space Holders: Baby teeth act as natural space holders for the permanent teeth developing beneath them. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, surrounding teeth may shift, potentially leading to crowding issues when the permanent teeth come in.
Confidence and Social Interaction: Healthy baby teeth contribute to your child’s self-esteem. Children with dental issues may be self-conscious about their smiles and avoid social interactions.
Oral Health Habits: Teaching your child proper oral hygiene from a young age is crucial. Caring for baby teeth sets the foundation for lifelong dental habits.
Myth: Baby Teeth Don’t Get Cavities
Baby teeth are susceptible to decay, just like adult teeth. Tooth decay in baby teeth can lead to pain, infection, and a host of other issues. If left untreated, it can even affect the development of permanent teeth.
Myth: Pediatric Dentists Aren’t Necessary for Baby Teeth
Pediatric dentists specialize in children’s oral health. They are trained to address the unique needs of young patients, including infants and toddlers. Regular visits to a pediatric dentist are essential for monitoring your child’s oral development and preventing dental issues.
Myth: It’s Normal for Children to Experience Toothaches
Toothaches in children are not normal and should never be ignored. Pain can be a sign of dental problems, and timely intervention is crucial to prevent further complications.
Caring for Your Child’s Baby Teeth
Here we present you five tips to take good care of your child’s smile:
Start Early: Begin cleaning your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth even before teeth emerge.
First Dental Visit: Schedule your child’s first dental appointment by their first birthday or when their first tooth emerges.
Oral Hygiene: Teach your child to brush their teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears.
Diet Matters: Limit sugary snacks and drinks and encourage a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Regular Check-Ups: Visit your pediatric dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
Steps to Take When Your Child’s Baby Teeth Fall Out.
If the baby tooth is lost, here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do when your child’s baby teeth start falling out:
Stay Calm and Reassure Your Child: Losing a tooth can be a bit scary for kids, so stay calm and reassure them that it’s a natural process.
Gently Remove the Tooth: If the tooth is loose and ready to come out, you can gently wiggle it or let your child do so. Never force a tooth out; it should come out naturally.
Clean the Area: After the tooth comes out, rinse your child’s mouth with warm water to ensure it’s clean.
Apply Pressure if Needed: If there’s bleeding, have your child bite down on a clean gauze pad or a clean piece of cloth for a few minutes. This should help stop the bleeding.
What Not to Do
While it’s essential to know what to do, it’s equally important to understand what not to do:
Do not pull the tooth out forcefully.
Avoid excessive poking or prodding of the loose tooth.
Don’t worry too much if your child swallows a loose tooth; it’s not harmful.
Natural Remedies for Pain
Some children may experience mild discomfort or pain when a tooth is loose or falls out. You can consider these natural remedies to ease the discomfort:
Apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek for 15 minutes.
Offer a soft, cold treat like yogurt or a popsicle.
Encourage your child to rinse their mouth with saltwater (dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water).
How to Mark the Moment?
Many parents like to mark every milestone reached by their children, if this is your case here are some ideas for you:
Keep a Record: Many parents like to keep a record of their child’s lost baby teeth. You can create a special tooth fairy pillow or box where your child can place the tooth for the Tooth Fairy’s visit.
Celebrate the Moment: Losing a tooth is a big deal for a child, so celebrate the moment with a ceremony burning the tooth and pledging to take good care of the rest of their smile.
Schedule a Dental Check-Up
After your child loses a few baby teeth, it’s a good time to schedule a dental check-up with your pediatric dentist. They can assess your child’s oral development and ensure everything is on track.
Baby teeth do matter—a lot! Proper care of these teeth sets the stage for a lifetime of good oral health. As parents, it’s our responsibility to dispel myths and prioritize our children’s dental well-being from an early age. By understanding the importance of baby teeth and maintaining a healthy dental routine, we can ensure our children’s smiles remain bright and problem-free as they grow.
Remember, healthy baby teeth lead to healthy permanent teeth, and a lifetime of confident smiles for your child.
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