Fluoride for Kids

Fluoride is a mineral that has been shown to be beneficial to teeth. Decades of research has shown that the appropriate oral exposure to fluoride will help prevent tooth decay. However, too little or too much fluoride can be detrimental to growing teeth. Little or no fluoride will not strengthen the enamel to help them resist cavities. Excessive fluoride ingestion by preschool-aged children is not healthy for growing bodies. Though very uncommon in Snohomish County, excessive fluoride intake can lead to dental fluorosis, which is a chalky white to even brown discoloration of the permanent teeth.

Do kids need fluoride?

More recent research has shown that the primary benefit of fluoride intake is topical. That means the fluoride in drinking water and toothpaste strengthens enamel and slows the progression of tooth decay during the time it is passing through the mouth. Once drinking water is swallowed, there is no further dental benefit.

At Stellar Kids Dentistry, we believe in the careful evaluation of the risks and benefits associated with fluoride prior to recommending it. While there is very strong scientific evidence backing the effectiveness of fluoride to prevent tooth decay, we understand that there are many that do not agree with this. We believe it is the right of each parent to decide whether it is in the best interest of their child.

Decrease the Risk of Fluorosis

Parents can take the following steps to maximize fluoride benefit on children’s teeth and minimize risk to their health.

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Use baby tooth cleanser on the toothbrush of the very young child.

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Place only a tiny rice grain amount for children under the age of 3.

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Place a small pea-sized drop of children’s toothpaste on the brush only when a child can fully spit out.

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Generally, use less toothpaste than you think!

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Account for all of the sources of ingested fluoride before requesting fluoride supplements from your child’s physician or pediatric dentist.

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We don’t recommend fluoride toothpaste or supplements until a baby is at least 12 months old.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children be exposed to 2 sources of fluoride.

Fluoridated drinking water – Nearly all of Snohomish County’s water supply is fluoridated. Hence, we do not typically recommend fluoride supplements in these regions.
Fluoride in toothpaste – please call us to learn more about our recommendations based on age and development.

Fluoride for Kids

Do kids need fluoride?

Decrease the Risk of Fluorosis

Use baby tooth cleanser on the toothbrush of the very young child.

Place only a tiny rice grain amount for children under the age of 3.

Place a small pea-sized drop of children’s toothpaste on the brush only when a child can fully spit out.

Generally, use less toothpaste than you think!

Account for all of the sources of ingested fluoride before requesting fluoride supplements from your child’s physician or pediatric dentist.

We don’t recommend fluoride toothpaste or supplements until a baby is at least 12 months old.

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