Should My Child Get Topical Fluoride Treatments?

Fluoride treatment is an important preventative dental practice that both children and adults should consider for their dental health as it helps prevent cavities and strengthens the tooth enamel. 

In this article, our dental team at Lakeview Dental Clinic in Coeur D'Alene, Idaho, explains why fluoride treatments are beneficial to your child’s dental health.

What Is Topical Fluoride Treatment? 

Fluoride is very efficient in preventing cavities and treating the early stages of tooth decay. Dental caries can be treated in their early stages with topical fluoride treatments before they cause any significant harm to the teeth.

After a professional cleaning, the dentist can apply topical fluoride to the tooth enamel to strengthen the teeth and help prevent various dental problems. 

However, it is important to know that fluoride varnish cannot totally prevent cavities. 

Topical Fluoride Treatment for Children - Procedure

A tiny brush is used to apply fluoride varnish on the top and sides of each tooth. This varnish hardens when it comes in contact with saliva. Your child will be unable to ingest it. It only takes minutes for the procedure to be completed. 

Fluoride varnish is a harmless substance that is used by dentists all over the globe to help youngsters prevent tooth decay. It's easy to use, hardens quickly, and can be brushed off after 4 to 12 hours.

What if My Child Swallows Fluoride?

Children are more prone to ingest small amounts of fluoride. Enamel fluorosis, which causes tooth discoloration and surface abnormalities, has been linked to excessive fluoride intake in young children.

When cleaning the teeth of little children, use a minimal amount of toothpaste. You should only place a pea-sized quantity of toothpaste on the child's toothbrush.

Your dentist may recommend fluoride varnish treatments for your child at least 2-4 times a year after their teeth have erupted. This, however, depends on your child’s vulnerability to cavities.

If you want to get your child’s teeth checked or learn more about topical fluoride treatments, contact Lakeview Dental Clinic at (208) 664-0884 or visit us at 801 Milwaukee Dr., Coeur D'Alene, ID 83814.