Should You let Your Child Get a Fluoride Treatment?

Fluoride can be a controversial topic. Some say it’s a dangerous substance, but most believe it’s good for the health of your teeth. If you’re interested in making this decision for yourself, there are a few things you should know.

Many argue that the benefits of fluoride far outweigh the risks. In fact, fluoride can reduce tooth decay by up to 25%. However, it’s important to remember that fluoride can affect your kids differently—especially if they’re younger than twelve. You should also avoid using toothpaste with fluoride in it until you’re certain your little one can spit out their toothpaste. Your child would need to ingest a huge amount of fluoride before it would cause any real damage, but avoiding the issue altogether is generally considered preferable.

Many dentists offer fluoride treatments. These treatments don’t usually take more than a few minutes, and can come in many forms, including a gel, foam, or varnish. If you decide on this treatment, we’ll apply your fluoride with a cotton swab, brush, or with a tray. After the treatment, you should avoid foods and beverages for at least 30 minutes. This will give your teeth a chance to absorb the fluoride.

Would you like to learn more about the benefits of fluoride? Are you interested in learning more about a fluoride treatment? If so, please don’t hesitate to contact The Chicago Family Dental Center at 312.551.0500. Dr. Gary Wegmann and our team will be happy to examine your teeth and offer you personalized advice. We’ll also be happy to answer any questions you may have. We’re look forward to hearing from you!