Fluoride is the ultimate protector of teeth, helping to prevent decay and increase overall oral health.
While fluoride is in most dental products due to its contributions to oral health, at what age should you begin using toothpaste with fluoride?
First of All, What Exactly is Fluoride?
Believe it or not, fluoride is derived from a chemical compound found in the earth’s crust. Since its discovery, fluoride and its varying forms have contributed to many industries, and most notably, the dental industry.
Studies show that when applied to teeth, fluoride helps to prevent the build-up of bacteria, germs, and plaque, thereby helping prevent tooth decay.
Fluoride toothpaste had been so successful at preventing tooth decay in the United States that it was inevitable that it would be used to promote oral health in other areas. Over 70 years ago, the Center For Disease Control advocated for putting fluoride in public water systems across the country. The water fluoridation program has been so successful that the CDC has called it “one of the ten great health achievement in the 20th century.”
A Guide to Using Toothpaste with Fluoride
Using toothpaste with fluoride promotes the health of your teeth and gums while protecting and strengthening teeth. This is great, but at what age do you start using toothpaste with fluoride?
Luckily, you aren’t alone when it comes to determining when to integrate using fluoride into your own dental routine, or the routine of your children.
The American Dental Association (or ADA), has guidelines for the fluoride use, particularly for children. Starting off on the right foot for your child’s oral health is essential. The ADA recommends beginning an oral routine as soon as teeth appear, which can occur as early as 6 months old. More specifically, the organization recommends using fluoride toothpaste, applying “no more than the size of a grain of rice” to the toothbrush.
At this age, supervision is necessary. It is important that an adult is in charge of applying the fluoride toothpaste and brushes the child’s teeth. This ensures safety, and that not too much toothpaste is used.
As a child grows up, it is important to continuing supervising their oral hygiene and using fluoride toothpaste. From ages 3 to 6, the ADA recommends a “pea-sized” amount of fluoride toothpaste.
At All Ages, Toothpaste with Fluoride Promotes Healthy Teeth
Individuals should always be using fluoride toothpaste. While the amount of toothpaste varies, fluoride can begin protecting teeth as early as 6 months of age.
Want to protect the health of your children’s teeth? Start their fluoride toothpaste routine today! If you have any questions on fluoride or the impact of it on your teeth and overall health, call us today at (303) 284-6463.
