Fluoride makes the tooth structure hard and more resistant to cavities. In many cities and countries, fluoride is added to drinking water but this is not the case in the lower mainland. In small children, ingesting fluoride can lead to some side effects, that’s why controlling the right amount of fluoride-containing toothpaste is essential.
Your child can get fluoride from three different sources: toothpaste, fluoride varnish applied at the dentist, or fluoride supplements in a chewable tablet or drop form. Professionally applied, high-concentration fluoride can help protect your child’s teeth for maximum protection. For infants and children who are unable to spit, use a smear (rice grain size) of fluoridated toothpaste. Once they’re able to rinse and spit (around age three), you may start using a green pea-size amount of fluoridated toothpaste. Any toothpaste with fluoride listed in the ingredient list can be used regardless of the brand.
If you are not comfortable with using fluoride, ask Dr. Fran about alternative ingredients to protect your child’s teeth against cavities such as Xylitol and MI paste.