FAQs: Fluoride

At Adelberg Montalvan, we take great pride in our practice and in educating our patients. We understand that the topic of fluoride may confuse some parents. And with the internet at our finger tips, it’s easy to search and find articles from non-credible sources recommending to steer clear of fluoride use. 
 
But we assure you, as board certified pediatric dental specialists, we follow the strictest of guidelines established by the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry in our fluoride recommendations. 
 
To help shed some light on fluoride, we pulled together some common FAQs parents tend to ask:
What is fluoride?
Fluoride is nature’s cavity fighter. It occurs naturally in varying water sources and certain foods and beverages but the levels vary widely. 
 
Where is fluoride found?
Fluoride can be found naturally in some foods and water and has known to be added to the water supply of certain areas. On Long Island - the water supply is not fluoridated however in New York City and the boroughs, it is. Fluoride is also added to some dental products like toothpaste to help prevent cavities. 
 
How does fluoride protect teeth?
Fluoride has been shown to dramatically decrease a person's chances of getting cavities by making teeth stronger. It also helps stop early stage tooth decay. The fluoride consumed naturally from foods and water, plus fluoridated toothpaste, helps provide topical benefit. The tiny amounts of fluoride becomes part of saliva and helps rebuild weakened tooth enamel. 
 
Why should I use fluoride toothpaste?
Brushing for two minutes, twice daily, helps remove plaque and debris from teeth. But only using fluoride toothpaste will do all that plus strengthen tooth enamel!
 
Should my child use fluoride toothpaste? 
For children younger than 3 years of age, when the first few teeth erupt, begin brushing with a smear (size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste. For children ages 3 to 6, dispense no more than a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Supervise your children and teach them how to spit out the toothpaste vs. swallowing it. Over the age of 6, ensure the appropriate amount of toothpaste is being used and that they are brushing thoroughly in the morning and at night.
 
I’m nervous to brush my infant’s teeth with fluoride toothpaste - is there another option?
Sure is! Many parents visit our office and wonder what they can be using as a toothpaste for their young child who doesn’t spit out yet.  The good news is there is an alternative for your child that can still provide anti-cavity effects: Xylitol Toothpaste. Xylitol is a natural sweetener found in plants. It is a low glycemic sweetener and even safe for diabetics. It does not break down like sugar and can help keep the saliva in your mouth a more neutral pH level. Xylitol also aids in preventing bacteria from sticking to the teeth.  

If you have additional questions or concerns surrounding fluoride use, we encourage you to give any of our three offices a call. We'd be happy to answer any and all of your questions!