{"id":95,"date":"2022-08-17T17:24:51","date_gmt":"2022-08-17T17:24:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.simplypedoorthonashua.com\/blog\/?p=95"},"modified":"2022-08-17T17:24:53","modified_gmt":"2022-08-17T17:24:53","slug":"how-fluoride-impacts-your-childs-teeth","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.simplypedoorthonashua.com\/blog\/2022\/08\/17\/how-fluoride-impacts-your-childs-teeth\/","title":{"rendered":"Fluoride: What It Is & How It Impacts Your Child\u2019s Teeth"},"content":{"rendered":"
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If you take the time to read through the ingredients in oral hygiene products (like toothpaste and mouthwash), you\u2019ll quickly realize a common ingredient: fluoride. When it was initially discovered, dentists were perplexed since it simultaneously stained teeth and made them considerably less vulnerable to decay. After decades of research, they discovered that with the right amount it can strengthen teeth without the discoloration. To learn more about fluoride and how it impacts your child\u2019s oral health<\/a>, keep reading!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Is Fluoride, Exactly?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As mentioned above, fluoride is a mineral. Made up of hydroxylapatite, phosphorus, hydrogen, and oxygen, it binds the tooth enamel to prevent decay. While research is still underway on exactly how it works, studies have shown that it works best topically, which is why it\u2019s added to toothpaste and mouthwash. Biannual checkups and cleanings often end with a fluoride treatment as well for added protection from cavities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Will I Know If My Child Needs a Fluoride Treatment?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The best thing to do is talk directly with your child\u2019s dentist. Since each kid has unique dental needs (plus different diets and lifestyle factors to consider), there isn\u2019t a one-size-fits-all answer. If your child is prone to cavities, then their dentist may recommend a specific toothpaste as well as fluoride treatments at the end of their six-month cleaning. If your child\u2019s teeth are generally very healthy and strong, then a solid at-home oral hygiene routine may be all that\u2019s needed!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5 Additional Ways to Keep Your Child\u2019s Teeth Decay-Free<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Biannual cleanings and regular fluoride treatments are two important measures you can take to help keep your child\u2019s teeth happy and healthy. A few additional best practices include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n