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Does
Fluoride Really Make a Difference?
 In
the past, cavities were a fact of life. But over the last several years tooth
decay has been reduced dramatically due to fluoride. Fluoride is beneficial
for adults as well as children. Research has shown that fluoride reduces cavities
by up to 40% in children and 35% in adults.*
Is
Fluoride Safe?
Yes. Numerous
studies over the past 60 years have shown that fluoride at recommended levels
is not only safe, but provides significant health benefits.*
How
Does Fluoride Help Children?
Children
benefit from fluoride both systemically (by ingesting fluoride) and
topically (the fluoride that gets on their teeth). Systemic and topical
fluoride work together to keep teeth strong. Fluoride works best in children
while teeth are forming. This helps both primary (baby) and permanent teeth.
Starting at birth, and until all permanent teeth have fully erupted, ingested
fluoride helps strengthen teeth as they are forming. Topical fluoride helps
people of all ages. Fluoride is the only known substance that will actually
strengthen teeth and make them harder.
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Does
My Child Need Fluoride Supplements?
Most city
water is fluoridated and is an adequate source of systemic (ingested) fluoride.
If your family uses well water or bottled water, you should have your water
tested to see if there is adequate natural fluoride, or if a fluoride supplement
is needed. Check with your local Health Department or bottled water manufacturer
for testing. If adequate fluoride is not present, your child may need a prescription
fluoride supplement from your dentist.
Topical fluoride
is provided by fluoridated toothpastes and rinses. Additional fluoride treatments
are applied as needed by your dentist during regular check-ups.
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* Source: American
Dental Association
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