Talking to Your Kids Dentist About Fluoride Supplements

Parents may hear a lot from a kids dentist about fluoride and its importance in growing strong and healthy teeth. Fluoride supplements may seem like a good idea to give an extra boost to that tooth-building work. However, parents may have also heard that fluoride can potentially damage a child’s teeth. The best person to answer any confusing questions is a pediatric dentist, who can guide parents through the pros and cons to make sure the child receives the best treatment and care.

How much fluoride is enough?

Before pursuing fluoride supplements or ruling them out entirely, parents should talk to a kids dentist about the fluoride a child is already exposed to.

In the water

Fluoride in tap water has been a top source of the chemical for kids’ teeth for decades. These days, with bottled water being consumed more frequently than water from the sink, kids may be missing out. Parents should talk to the child’s dentist about whether the local water supply provides sufficient fluoride and whether the child drinks enough of it to matter.

In toothpaste

Another common source of fluoride for kids is toothpaste. Discuss whether this is a good option for a particular age group and just how much of that toothpaste should go on a brush to provide a good treatment but no risk of swallowing too much fluoride. Rinses containing fluoride are also popular these days. Parents should check with a kids dentist to see if this is a good option or will provide an excessive amount.

In dental treatments

If a child is particularly cavity-prone or has a family history of weak teeth, the dentist may apply fluoride in the form of a foam, gel, or varnish directly to the child’s teeth. This gives enamel a boost and may even smooth out small developing cavities. A pediatric dentist may have these in flavors that will make the procedure more appealing to a child, if not exactly fun.

In supplements

Children who are not getting adequate fluoride from other sources may be prescribed it in liquid, tablet, or lozenge form. Parents should discuss the need for this in detail with the dentist if there are any concerns about the safety of fluoride and the possibility of overdose. It is important to understand completely what the benefits of this treatment will be, what risks may be worth worrying about and how to know if the medication being given to a child is causing a problem. Insurance coverage may also be an issue to discuss. If a pediatric dentist is not able to reassure parents sufficiently on this issue, it may be time to seek a second opinion.

Conclusion

It is important for parents to be certain of the course being taken to protect children’s teeth. Supplements are not helpful if a doubting parent is reluctant to deliver them to the child. Seek out information directly from the dentist to make sure children’s teeth are well protected — and that dental visits are more pleasant as a result.

Request an appointment here: https://www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at (832) 579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.

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