Most dentists agree fluoride is one of the best medicines against cavities. Those who take fluoride regularly end up having fewer cavities than those who don’t. Some people don’t have fluoride in their water, naturally. Thus, it must be taken as a supplement.
Other minerals like zinc, copper, manganese and magnesium are also essential for good oral health. However, too much of these can be poisonous. Sodium Fluoride, given in the right amounts, can prevent cavities by hardening the tooth enamel and making the teeth more resistant to decay.
Prescription Forms
Prescription fluoride treatments and supplements can help permanent teeth grow. A prescription comes with the benefit of knowing your child gets the right amount. However, your child doesn’t need supplements if they get fluoride from your area water supply.
You can find this information out by checking with your local water company. All doses of fluoride should be taken as prescribed. If a child takes too much fluoride below the age of 3, they might get spots or lines on their adult teeth appearing years later. As with any prescription medication, too much can cause overdose and be poisonous.
Child Dosage
A prescription form of fluoride is created into a compound called Sodium Fluoride (NaF). Both sodium and fluoride is in each dose. Below you can find the doses of NaF for those without fluoride in their local water supply and the amount of F in each dose:
Kids under 3 Years old: .55mg NaF (=0.25mg F)
Kids 3 to 5 Years old: 1.1mg NaF (=0.5 mg F)
Kids 6 to 16 Years: 2.2mg NaF (=1.0 mg F)
It is recommended children take a dose up to the age of 16, due to the extended topical benefit.
Topical Fluorides (toothpaste/mouth rinse)
Teeth already in the mouth can be helped with soaking teeth in topical fluoride. Topical forms of fluoride include toothpastes and rinses and should not be swallowed. Topical fluoride should be used in children who can spit it out and now swallow it.
Offering pediatric dental services and orthodontics to families throughout the Portland metro area. Dr. Mark Mutschler and his staff will provide information on the practice, orthodontics and Portland children's dentist needs.
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