Below are answers to common questions about fluoride and its role in preventing tooth decay.
1. What is fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral found in soil, water (both fresh and salt) and various foods.
2. How does fluoride prevent tooth decay?
Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. It can also reverse early signs of tooth decay .
3. Where do I get fluoride that protects my teeth?
For many Canadians, fluoride is found in public drinking water. Additional sources include f toothpastes, mouth rinses, and professional fluoride treatments (such as gels and varnish) provided by your dentist.
4. What is dental fluorosis?
Dental fluorosis is a change in the appearance of teeth caused by consuming too much fluoride during early childhood. Mild fluorosis appears as small white specks on the teeth.
5. Is dental fluorosis a concern in Canada?
According to the Canadian Health Measures Survey 2007-2009, dental fluorosis is not a concern for the vast majority of children. About 84%showed no signs of it. Mild forms in 16% of children often go unnoticed by children and parents alike.
6. What is water fluoridation?
Water fluoridation is the process of adjusting the level of fluoride in a public drinking water supply to tooth decay.
7. Why add fluoride to water if it is available elsewherein other ways?
Adding fluoride to public water supplies helps protect everyone in the community, regardless of age or income. It’s a safe, low-cost and effective way to reduce tooth decay. 8. Who monitors fluoride levels in drinking water?
The Federal-Provincial-Territorial Committee on Drinking Water recommends optimal fluoride levels, considering other fluoride sources like food and beverages.
9. What does an “optimal” level of water fluoridation mean?
It’s the fluoride concentration that provides maximum protection against tooth decay while minimizing the risk of dental fluorosis.
10. Are there any health risks with water fluoridation?
Apart from dental fluorosis, scientific studies have found no credible evidence linking water fluoridation to health risks.
11. Should I be using fluoridated toothpaste with my child?
For children from birth to 3 years of age:
Consult a health professional to assess your child’s risk of tooth decay.
If at risk, brush the child’s teeth using a tinyamount (a portion the size of a grain of rice) of fluoridated toothpaste.
If not at risk, use a toothbrush moistened only with water.
For children from 3 to 6 years of age:
Use a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste
Always supervise brushing to ensure the correct amount is used, encourage spitting out toothpaste, and ensure thorough cleaning.
12. Why do young children need supervision while brushing?
Young children often swallow toothpaste, increasing their fluoride intake. A should supervise to ensure the correct amount is used, encourage spitting out toothpaste, and ensure thorough cleaning.
13. How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride?
Your dentist can assess your child’s risk of tooth decay and recommend the appropriate level of fluoride protection.
