Fluoride, used both systemically and topically, is the most effective preventive measure to reduce cavities. If your water supply is NOT fluoridated, check with your pediatric dentist  or pediatrician for the proper supplemental dosage.

The supplemental dosage must be calculated to avoid too much ingested fluoride. Ingesting too much fluoride early in life may lead to fluorosis, a decalcification of the crowns of permanent teeth.

Use non fluoride toothpaste until your child is able to spit toothpaste out. Children with a high rate of decay, however, will benefit from the use of  a ‘smear’ of fluoridated toothpaste for children under 2 years of age and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste  for ages 2 through 5 years for daily brushing. Parents should supervise dispensing the toothpaste and assist or perform with tooth brushing of preschool-aged children, However, we recommend adult help until age 9 as children do not have the proper dexterity to do a thorough job!

If you are concerned about the fluoride content of the drinking water ask us when you visit us.

 

 

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